Terence Crawford or Floyd Mayweather? Hall of Fame fighter Tim Bradley sees only one winner.
Eight years on from Mayweather retiring undefeated, Crawford followed suit. The pair shared many of the traits that define elite fighters. Both won titles across multiple weights and relied on ring IQ, timing and accuracy rather than all-out aggression. Notably, they were able to adjust mid-fight and take away what opponents do best without taking unnecessary risks.
They were also very different. Mayweather, especially later in his career, was almost entirely defensive-minded, content to win rounds through control and minimal engagement. ‘Bud’ was the more proactive and fan-friendly – switching stances, increasing output and pushing for the finish if the opening was there.
It’s an intriguing clash of styles and a natural pick for a top fantasy fight and, speaking to ES News, an animated Bradley predicted a Crawford win with no hesitation.
“Crawford! … He’s got too much power, man, too much power for Floyd. He’s just as smart as [Floyd] is. He has exellent timing. He can go both ways – Floyd don’t really like facing southpaws. S**t, Zab Judah was getting his ass before he ran out of gas. I’ve said this for years, I got Crawford all day.”
Crawford has only been respectful when asked about Mayweather, and even admitted that he believes Floyd to be the only fighter that could have caused him problems. It will remain one of the most hotly debated cross-generation match-ups.