Terence Crawford’s trainer Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre backs him against the majority of boxing’s elite.
McIntyre guided Crawford to a new high in September, as he claimed the undisputed super middleweight crown from Canelo Alvarez.
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Crawford is top of Ring Magazine’s famous pound-for-pound rankingCredit: Esther Lin/Showtime
In a punch-perfect display, Crawford also became the first male three-weight undisputed champion in the four-belt era.
As he approaches the twilight of his career, ‘Bud’ has teased both retirement and an appearance at middleweight over the last few months.
Although esteemed sports journalist Chris Mannix has since reported that Crawford is planning his return for March 2026.
While we await an official announcement, ‘BoMac’ was asked on talkSPORT Boxing to predict the outcome for two fantasy match-ups.
Terence Crawford’s trainer didn’t hesitate when asked if he’d beat Floyd Mayweather and Sugar Ray LeonardTerence Crawford vs Sugar Ray Leonard
When McIntyre considered how Crawford would do against a prime Sugar Ray Leonard, he was confident with his response.
He stated: “Bud, definitely Bud. Bud would definitely win.”
During Leonard’s 20-year career, his blinding speed and ability to adapt in the ring made him a tricky opponent for most, including Roberto Duran.
‘Sugar’s resume is undeniably stacked, but many believe Crawford’s killer instinct would ultimately seal the deal.
The pair do share similarities in terms of sheer talent, but Leonard would have an undeniable size advantage over Crawford who started his career in the lightweight division.
Although ‘Bud’s recent step up to fight Canelo Alvarez certainly proved that he can outbox a bigger opponent.
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Sugar Ray Leonard is a true boxing legend having won world titles in five weight classesCredit: Getty
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Crawford is eyeing a move to middleweight to extend his impressive run on the pro scene so farCredit: Mark Robinson/Matchroom
Crawford is hot in the pursuit of the status that Leonard reached, and some would say he isn’t far from it.
‘Bud’ has already joined Leonard in an elite group of five-weight world champions.
Leonard achieved the feat in 1988 while building his reputation as one of the best fighters of his generation, if not all time.
Terence Crawford vs Floyd Mayweather
Like Leonard, ‘Money’ also held titles across five weight classes and cemented his place as boxing royalty before Crawford.
Although McIntyre sees a theoretical fight between ‘Bud’ and a prime Floyd Mayweather Jr ending one way.
McIntyre said: “He’d stop him probably.”
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Mayweather is considered one of the greatest boxers of all timeCredit: Getty
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Crawford is undefeated in 41 professional bouts and was the first undisputed champion in the four belt eraCredit: Getty
Mayweather Jr helped shape an era in the sport, having conquered pound-for-pound legends like Manny Pacquiao, Oscar De La Hoya and Alvarez.
Although Crawford also went the distance with Alvarez and came out on top, having stepped up two weight classes to action their bout in September.
The Omaha puncher is widely considered a defining figure of the modern era, having beaten everyone that has been put in front of him.
While Mayweather is viewed by many in the boxing fraternity to have possessed one of the greatest defensive skillsets of all time, Crawford’s constant pressure could wear him down.
If Crawford’s consistent success is anything to go by, McIntyre is right to put his faith in him beating boxing greats like Leonard and Mayweather.
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