OMAHA, Neb.- In what is described as the toughest career match-up for both, undefeated WBO Welterweight Champion Terence Crawford (33-0) defends his title against Jose Benavidez (27-0) Saturday at the CHI Health Center.
Any speculation of mere promotional hype was quickly put to rest at weigh-ins when Benavidez pushed Crawford and the welterweight champ responded with a right hook that barely missed the chin of Benavidez.
It became personal last February when the fight was announced. Since then, the war of words ensued on social media where Benavidez claimed he would take the Omaha native down in the fight. The simmer erupted to a full boil when the two camps appeared at a media workout Thursday. The event ended with security separating the two fighters.
Neither men are expected to be punished for the incident.
This will be the toughest fight for both Crawford and Benavidez. Benavidez got shot in the leg August of 2016. The recovery process has been slow. Before he was shot, he was a rising star for Top Rank Boxing. In his absence, Crawford dominated the Top Rank scene. Benavidez has had two fights since he’s return back in the ring, with his last bout being a first round knockout of Frank Rojas. Benavidez is a tall, long, and rangy fighter standing at 6’2” and weighs 145 lbs . He has a strong right jab complemented by a left hook to the head. Benavidez will have to establish his jab early and often to keep the crafty Crawford at bay.
Crawford is coming off a win versus Jeff Horn, knocking him out in the ninth round. Crawford can fight from both sides (orthodox/southpaw). In the ring, he is intelligent and can process information quickly. He has good defense, dynamic hand speed and throws a variety of punches. Crawford is going to have to watch out for the left hook and work the body of Benavidez, have him drop his guard, then come over the top with the right hand.
This should be a competitive fight with some good exchanges, but I have Crawford winning in the seventh round by way of knockout. Crawford’s experience and stamina should take over and give him a win against a good opponent.
