The WBO president, Paco Valcarcel, has recently announced that the fight between Sebastian Fundora and Terence Crawford will be ordered by the organization. However, there are doubts surrounding this decision as Fundora is anticipated to vacate the belt in order to pursue a more lucrative bout against Errol Spence Jr. This leaves Crawford with the possibility of facing the #1 contender, Josh Kelly, for the vacant 154-pound strap.
Fundora, known as ‘The Towering Inferno,’ is evidently focused on securing the highest payday possible. His promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz, and promoter Leonard Ellerbe have both indicated that a showdown with Spence is the next logical step for the 6’5″ fighter. This leaves Crawford in a challenging position, as he may be left with the option of facing Kelly, a less financially rewarding opponent.
For Crawford, the prospect of fighting Kelly for the WBO junior middleweight title raises crucial questions about his priorities. Does he prioritize capturing the belt for the sake of holding a title, or is his primary focus on maximizing his earnings in the sport? At nearly 37 years old, Crawford’s time in boxing is limited, which adds complexity to his decision-making process.
If Crawford aims to secure significant financial gains, facing Kelly may not align with his objectives. The allure of potential future fights against the likes of Fundora or Tszyu could be a driving factor in his decision-making. However, the reality is that these matchups may not materialize in the near future, prompting considerations about alternative paths for Crawford.
In light of the circumstances, Crawford may benefit from exploring alternative avenues to maximize his career trajectory. One option could involve a matchup against Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis at 147 pounds, offering an intriguing challenge and potential rewards. Alternatively, a move up to the super middleweight division to face the recognized champion, Canelo Alvarez, could open new doors for Crawford in the sport.
As Terence Crawford navigates the complexities of his career, he faces critical decisions that will shape his legacy in boxing. Balancing the pursuit of titles with financial considerations, while also assessing long-term opportunities, presents a formidable challenge for the skilled fighter. Ultimately, Crawford’s strategic choices in the coming months will determine the course of his career and the challenges he must overcome to achieve his goals.