The boxing world is buzzing with fresh controversy as WBC super welterweight champion Sebastian Fundora (21-1-1, 13 KOs) casts doubt on Terence Crawford’s ability to defeat Saul “Canelo” Álvarez in a potential blockbuster showdown. Fundora, speaking at a media event in Los Angeles earlier today, praised Canelo’s current form while questioning Crawford’s chances, stating, “He [Canelo] is in good shape! I don’t see Crawford beating him.”

Fundora’s comments come at a pivotal moment as speculation intensifies about a Canelo-Crawford superfight, potentially slated for late 2025 or early 2026. Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs), fresh off a ninth-round knockout of Israil Madrimov on May 17, 2025, in Los Angeles to claim the WBA super welterweight title, has been vocal about his desire to move up to 168 pounds to challenge Canelo, the undisputed super middleweight champion. Canelo (61-2-2, 39 KOs), meanwhile, is preparing for his next title defense against Edgar Berlanga Jr. on September 13, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The 6’5” Fundora, known as “The Towering Inferno,” has a unique perspective on both fighters. He previously faced Crawford in a heated sparring session in 2023, where sources claimed Fundora held his own despite Crawford’s technical mastery. Fundora also shares the 154-pound division with Crawford, though the two have yet to meet in an official bout. On the other hand, Fundora has long admired Canelo’s durability and adaptability, having watched him dominate at super middleweight against the likes of Jaime Munguia and Jermall Charlo in 2024.

“Canelo’s experience at 168 is unmatched,” Fundora elaborated. “Crawford is a genius in the ring, but moving up two more weight classes to face a guy like Canelo, who’s in good shape right now, is a tall order—even for someone as great as Bud.” Fundora’s remarks echo a sentiment shared by some analysts on X, who argue that Crawford’s size disadvantage and Canelo’s relentless body punching could prove decisive in a matchup.

Crawford, however, remains unfazed by the skepticism. In a recent interview with DAZN, the 37-year-old Omaha native dismissed doubters, saying, “I’ve been hearing ‘no’ my whole career. Canelo’s a great champion, but I’m the best fighter in the world. I’ll prove it when we get there.” Crawford’s confidence is bolstered by his recent performances, including a dominant display against Madrimov, where he showcased his adaptability by switching stances and landing precise counters.

Canelo, at 34, has shown no signs of slowing down, despite whispers of retirement following Eddie Hearn’s provocative statement earlier today that Canelo might “retire soon” to avoid Crawford. Canelo’s team has brushed off such claims, with trainer Eddy Reynoso emphasizing their focus on Berlanga. “We don’t look past any opponent,” Reynoso said last week. “Crawford can wait his turn.”

Fundora’s doubts have sparked a heated debate among fans. On X, some agree with the super welterweight champ, pointing to Canelo’s physical advantages and experience at higher weights. Others argue that Crawford’s speed, ring IQ, and southpaw stance could pose significant problems for Canelo, who struggled against Dmitry Bivol’s movement in 2022.

As the boxing world awaits Canelo’s next move after Berlanga, Fundora’s comments have added fuel to the fire surrounding this dream matchup. Will Crawford defy the odds and cement his legacy by toppling Canelo, or will Fundora’s prediction hold true? With both fighters at the peak of their careers, this debate is far from over.