03/13/2025
If Terence “Bud” Crawford follows through on his plan to move up two weight classes to challenge Canelo Alvarez, he will have at least one powerful supporter: WBO President Gustavo Olivieri.
Photo Credit: Premier Boxing Champions
In an exclusive interview with Brunch Boxing, Olivieri made it clear that should Crawford formally request a ranking at 168 pounds, he would personally recommend the undefeated superstar be installed as the WBO’s No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger for Alvarez’s WBO Super Middleweight title.
“If Crawford fights Canelo, in order to fight Canelo for the WBO [Super Middleweight] title, Crawford should be rated at 168. And to be honest with you, Crawford has all the merits. Although he hasn’t fought at 168, if he would petition to be installed at the 168 division, I would recommend it. That’s a decision that lies on the championship committee, but me as president, I would recommend to the committee that he be installed number one at 168 and be the mandatory for the WBO for Canelo.”
Olivieri was effusive in his praise of Crawford, who has long been one of the WBO’s most decorated champions. A former lightweight champion, Crawford has won titles at 140, 147, and most recently at 154 pounds, becoming an undisputed champion in two divisions. His achievements have earned him the WBO’s highest designation: Super Champion status.
“Crawford’s accomplishments are unheard of, man: Champion at 135, 40, 47, 54, undisputed in two weight classes, undefeated. You know, the guy is a generational talent and he’s got a better resume than many of the top five 168 pounders, in my humble opinion. So I wouldn’t have an objection to the total opposite. I would support Team Crawford’s petition, if that be the case, that he be installed number one and be designated as Canelo’s mandatory for the WBO.”
Photo Credit: Premier Boxing Champions
However, Olivieri also emphasized that while he would push for Crawford’s immediate ranking at 168, the final decision would rest with the WBO Championship Committee.
“But again, that remains to be seen, and that’s a decision that lies solely with the WBO Championship Committee. I would only make a recommendation.”
Crawford last fought in August, when he defeated WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Israil Madrimov by unanimous decision. The win furthered his standing as one of boxing’s best ever, but the 37-year-old future hall of famer has made it clear that he’s hunting for even bigger game.
For months, speculation has swirled about Crawford making the unprecedented leap to 168 to face Canelo. While no official negotiations have been completed, the WBO’s willingness to clear his path removes at least one major obstacle.
Alvarez, the unified super middleweight champion, is coming off a September victory over Edgar Berlanga. His next bout is set for May 3 against IBF Super Middleweight Champion William Scull. If Canelo successfully defends his titles, the door could be open for a massive showdown with Crawford later in the year, presumably September—assuming, of course, that Crawford formally requests the WBO’s No. 1 ranking.
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