Eddie Hearn: Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez are both fighting father time

Eddie Hearn believes age will prove the decisive factor as Crawford takes on Canelo

Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) are set for a monumental clash on September 13 in Las Vegas.

Both men will go down as all-time greats in their own right; however, this fight provides an opportunity to cement the victor as one of the greatest to ever do it. 

Speaking to the Stomping Ground, Eddie Hearn revealed that age – and each man's ability to hold father time at bay – will prove to be a decisive factor come Saturday.

“My worry is, I see the size of Crawford. He looks pumped up, much bigger than usual. It’s very difficult to do that to your body and go in and perform like you always perform. I don’t know if that’s going to help him or hinder him,” Hearn stated.

Hearn also went on to voice concerns surrounding the Americans' lack of activity, stating that he feels Crawford's long breaks may have taken an effect on the pound-for-pound great.

“Can Crawford handle the power at 168? Let’s be honest. He didn’t look sensational against [Israil] Madrimov at 154. He’s been so inactive. He’s been fighting once a year for the last two years, three years even. 

Although he still admitted that he currently slightly favours Crawford to come out on top.

“Right now, my head is leaning toward Crawford slightly. I want to see him next week on the scales,” He revealed.

Hearn also revealed similar concerts for ‘Buds’ counterpart, stating that Canelo may not be the same fighter as he used to be.

“I worry if he’s [Canelo] the same fighter at this stage of his career. Both guys are old in terms of fighters in their prime. What is Crawford, 36, 37? Canelo 36. I remember watching the [William] Scull fight. I just felt that his legs were slowing down a little bit.”

The Matchroom promoter was unable to pick a winner and reckons it will simply come down to who looks fresher on the night.

“I think they are both old. It’s almost like who is getting older quicker. Canelo hasn’t stopped anyone in ages since [Caleb] Plant [on November 6, 2021].