Crawford defeats Alvarez to become undisputed three-weight champ

Terence Crawford defeated Saúl Alvarez by unanimous decision at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on September 13, capturing the undisputed supermiddleweight titles and becoming the first man to hold undisputed championships in three weight classes. The victory, which extended Crawford's unbeaten record to 42-0, has prompted a flurry of reactions from rivals and promoters while leaving Alvarez at a crossroads as he recovers from an elbow injury and prepares for surgery.

Crawford outboxed Alvarez across 12 rounds to claim the belts; official scorecards read 116-112 and 115-113 twice. Fight statistics showed Crawford landing 115 of 534 punches and Alvarez 99 of 338. The result vaulted Crawford to the top of the sport’s conversation and has generated immediate interest in several potential matchups as he weighs whether to remain at 168 pounds, drop to middleweight, or take time away from the ring.

Some potential challengers have been outspoken. Jermell Charlo publicly urged for a fight with Crawford if the American stays active, saying he would welcome the biggest test. Janibek Alimkhanuly, the unified WBO and IBF middleweight champion, reiterated his desire to face Crawford and has...