Boxing analyst Tim Bradley believes that Terence Crawford needs to step up and face Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis to prove to the fans that he is not afraid of the young rising star.
Bradley Challenges Crawford to Fight Ennis
Fans speculate that the 36-year-old Crawford avoided his IBF mandatory challenger ‘Boots’ Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs) by moving up to the 154 division. Many see Ennis as a younger, stronger, and more skilled version of Crawford from Nebraska.
Crawford opted not to face Ennis, instead moving up to 154 to challenge Israil Madrimov for the WBA junior middleweight title on August 3rd in Los Angeles.
If Crawford defeats Madrimov, he is expected to have a shot at undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez, with a lucrative payday on the line.
Given the substantial financial incentive to fight Canelo, Crawford may be hesitant to risk facing Ennis and potentially suffering a loss at this stage of his career at 37 years old.
Bradley acknowledges that it may be a financial decision for Crawford rather than a sporting one to avoid a risky bout against Ennis.
Bradley encourages Crawford to consider facing Ennis, either at 147 or 154, as a way to solidify his legacy and prove himself against a young and talented opponent like Ennis.
Ennis as the Potential Successor to Crawford
Bradley suggests that a fight with Ennis would benefit Crawford in terms of his legacy and quieting critics who question the quality of his opponents.
Although Crawford remains a formidable fighter, his age and Ennis’s talent could pose a significant challenge that Crawford may be hesitant to confront.
Accepting the challenge from Ennis could demonstrate Crawford’s willingness to face tough opponents and further enhance his legacy in the sport.
Crawford’s Reluctance: Financial Gains vs. Athletic Risk
Bradley notes that Crawford’s reluctance to face Ennis may be perceived as prioritizing financial gain over athletic challenge, raising questions about his motivation in pursuing certain fights.
While a bout against Canelo may offer substantial financial rewards, Crawford’s decision to avoid Ennis raises concerns about his willingness to take on high-caliber opponents.
Crawford’s Apprehension towards Ennis
Bradley suggests that Crawford’s hesitancy to face Ennis may stem from a sense of concern or worry regarding the potential threat Ennis poses to his boxing career.
Despite the financial incentives and potential opportunities at higher weight classes, Crawford’s reluctance to face Ennis may indicate a level of apprehension or doubt about his ability to secure a victory against the rising star.
Overall, Bradley emphasizes the importance of Crawford stepping up to face Ennis as a means of solidifying his legacy and proving his capabilities against top-tier competition in the sport.
