JUST a few days after they were breaking bread together, the heat finally rose a few notches as Canelo and Crawford got physical at their latest head-to-head.
Trying to assert some spatial dominance over the bigger man, Crawford stepped a little too close and got a shove for his troubles. Whether it was a legitimate alpha move by both parties or a calculated ploy to create a bit of drama, given their cordial meetings thus far, is open to debate.
Crawford had been a little spikier during the press conference when asked a question about potential knockout bonuses, which may be introduced to stop so-called runners from refusing to engage.
“He’s one of the great fighters in the last year. Obviously, he’s a great fighter,” said Crawford, before adding, “I’m gonna just keep it real. I’m hunting him. That’s it. I’m hunting everything that he got. And I’m gonna take it come September 13th.”
This eventually led to a minor altercation that prompted a brief scuffle among the entourages and required security intervention. Canelo is welcoming Crawford up to his new domain at super-middleweight, placing all four belts on the line in their Las Vegas clash, live on Netflix. The Mexican feels a bit of history will be made once he has his own hand raised.
“It’s gonna be one of my best victories in my career, obviously. He’s a great fighter. He’s a legend. But, you know, it’s gonna be good for my books.”
When asked to visualise the fight and put himself in the shoes of the fans, what lasting impression is Canelo hoping to leave them with?
“I want all the people in the stands that boo me, they gonna cry when they go home. I promise. Ha-ha-ha! Go ahead,” he chuckled.
