Crawford's post-Alvarez path unsettled amid rematch questions

Terence Crawford’s path after his Sept. 13 victory over Canelo Alvarez remains unsettled as multiple developments shape the likely landscape of the super middleweight division. A dispute over whether Alvarez has a contractual right to an immediate rematch has emerged, Alvarez is reportedly facing an injury setback that could delay any return, and several unbeaten contenders have publicly targeted Crawford for potential historic showdowns.

Promoter Eddie Hearn said he believes Alvarez’s team included a rematch clause when talks for the fight were completed, noting that Alvarez rarely enters major bouts without such protections. "I believe they have a rematch clause," Hearn said. He added that stylistically he expects Crawford to prevail again if the rematch occurs. In contrast, reporter Dan Rafael said representatives for Alvarez have told him there is no automatic rematch clause in the contract, adding that Alvarez still has two fights remaining on his promotional agreement with Turki Alalshikh and that any rematch would require new negotiations.

The competing accounts leave the immediate prospects for a Crawford-Alvarez II unclear. Industry figures and analysts say a rematch...