In the ever-evolving world of boxing, the potential showdown between Terence Crawford and Geron Boots Inis has become a hot topic of discussion. Promoter Eddie Hearn is adamant that this matchup is the next logical step, suggesting it could take place at either 154 or 160 pounds. But is this fight truly feasible, or has the moment passed?
Eddie Hearn recently made headlines with his strong endorsement of a Crawford-Inis bout, referring to it as one of the great crossover fights. He positioned Boots as the new generation of fighters, while Crawford stands as a seasoned veteran with a proven track record. The distinct generational divide raises questions about whether the timing is right for such a clash.
As a long-time admirer of Geron Boots Inis, I’ve followed his career closely. Early on, I was vocal about wanting to see him face Crawford, particularly when both fighters operated in the welterweight division. At that time, the matchup made perfect sense: Crawford had just unified the division by defeating Errol Spence, and Inis was a rising mandatory challenger.
However, since those initial discussions, the landscape of boxing has shifted dramatically. Terence Crawford has moved up in weight, recently competing at 154 pounds and even making waves at 160 by taking on formidable opponents. His performance against Canelo Alvarez, where he displayed strength and skill, has further solidified his status. In contrast, Boots has remained at 147, recently signing with Hearn but facing lesser competition.
Boots’ recent fights have not matched the expectations set for a fighter touted as the next big thing. His struggle against lesser-known opponents and failure to capitalize on opportunities, such as a potential fight with Virgil Ortiz, has left fans questioning his readiness for a bout against a top-tier fighter like Crawford.
The reality is that Terence Crawford, now approaching 38 years of age, holds a distinct advantage in experience and skill. He has earned the right to dictate his path, and Hearn’s assertion that Crawford could fight Boots at 154 pounds seems unrealistic given Crawford’s recent experiences in the ring and his stated intentions of moving up to 160 or beyond.
As fans, we must recognize that boxing is a fluid sport, and circumstances can change rapidly. Just a few fights ago, my support for a Crawford-Inis matchup was unwavering; however, the current state of their careers presents a different picture. Crawford’s recent triumphs have placed him on a different stratosphere, and Boots’ resume requires significant enhancement before he can be considered a legitimate threat to the reigning champion.
While the prospect of a Crawford-Inis fight is enticing, the question remains: is it the right time? With Crawford’s recent successes and Boots still building his reputation, the timing may not align. Boxing fans must adapt to the changing dynamics of the sport, and while I would love to see this matchup unfold, the reality suggests that it might be a few steps too far for Boots at this stage.
In conclusion, while Eddie Hearn remains optimistic about the potential for a Crawford-Inis fight, we must consider the current trajectories of both fighters. Crawford is in the driver’s seat, and unless Boots can elevate his status with notable victories, this matchup may remain a dream rather than a reality.