Boxing
Israil Madrimov v Terence Crawford preview: Can Madrimov cause Crawford any issues?
Terence Crawford, having conquered the welterweight division, is set to face a new challenge as he moves up in weight to clash with super-welterweight champion Israil Madrimov in Los Angeles this weekend.
This highly anticipated bout marks Crawford’s first fight at this weight class, and he will be aiming to add another world title to his impressive collection.
This 12-round title fight will take place on Saturday, August 3 at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, USA. The question on everyone’s mind: can Madrimov pose any significant problems for Crawford in this new weight division?
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Terence Crawford – 1/6
Terence Crawford boasts a sensational 40-0-0 record and is ranked as the world’s third-best active boxer, pound for pound, by a host of leading boxing publications. Of those 40 wins, a staggering 31 came via knockout, making it no surprise that he holds odds of 1/6 to be the winner of this bout.
Crawford was originally meant to take on Errol Spence in a rematch, but Spence’s long recovery time after surgery meant talks broke down. Notably, he defeated Spence in the first fight, in what was a superb spectacle that saw Spence down once in round two and twice in round seven, with a TKO eventually coming in round nine.
Crawford has stepped up in weight for his upcoming fight against Israil Madrimov. After a 12-month layoff, Crawford will now be competing at 154 pounds (62 kg), moving up from his previous weight class of 147 pounds. This transition poses a significant physical challenge for the American and he will be wary of his lack of experience at this weight if the fight reaches the latter rounds.
Although Crawford’s technical skills and boxing IQ are exceptional, it remains to be seen how he will handle Madrimov’s physical advantages. If age and weight don’t hinder him, Crawford should however have the upper hand on Saturday.
Israil Madrimov – 4/1
Israil Madrimov’s current record currently stands at 11 total fights, 10 wins (seven by knockout), and one draw. The draw came in a rematch against Michel Soro, which ended in a technical draw after a violent clash of heads cut Soro near the left eye, forcing referee Steve Gray to stop the bout. Madrimov has held the World Boxing Association super welterweight title since March 2024.
Standing at 5 ft 8 1/2 in, Madrimov is just half an inch taller than Crawford, though he has a slight disadvantage in reach, measuring 68.5 inches compared to Crawford’s 74. The key difference between the fighters, which could be a deciding factor, is Madrimov’s established presence in the super welterweight category. He has experienced and endured the power of fighters in this division throughout his 11 bouts and largely successful career.
Madrimov’s familiarity with the weight class and his ability to both deliver and withstand powerful punches make him a tricky opponent for Crawford. This established toughness and experience at super welterweight could play a defining role.
Prediction
Despite stepping up to 154 pounds and facing physical challenges in this new weight class, Crawford’s superior technical skills and boxing IQ make him the firm favourite heading into Saturday’s clash.
However, Madrimov, established in the super welterweight category, presents a tough challenge. Expect Crawford to be tested and possibly knocked down in Los Angeles. The 12/1 odds for Crawford to be knocked down and win could provide very good value.
