Terrence Crawford squared off against a game opponent in Errol Spence Jr last night in a highly prolific boxing bout. Out classing him in every round, Crawford showed his greatness and deserves all the credit.
What Went Down at Terence Crawford vs. Errol Spence Jr
It was clear to see both fighters keys to victory as the opening bell rang. Crawford looked to download data and manage his shot selection. Whereas Spence came out demanding the centre, and looked to land some power shots. It didn’t take long for Crawford’s plan to come to fruition, as the second round saw him land a well-timed right hand, sending Spence to the canvas for the first time in his career.
Continued:
The next couple of rounds Crawford utilised a Philly shell defence, batting off oncoming shots and countering when needed. Spence continued to pressure Crawford, keeping him on the back foot and landing some good body shots. After a few rounds of Crawford being pushed back, he switches the plan. He comes out with a high guard, taking the centre and now pressuring Spence, controlling distance with a jab every time Spence gets close. As the rounds progress, Crawford picks up his pace and lands powerful shots during Spences entry and exits. Spence maintains his high output, but is being caught and outclassed with little success.
The Beginning of The End:
Just before the end of round 7, Crawford sends Spence to the canvas again. Catching him stood square on, attempting to land power shots, he lands a beautifully timed overhand right. This seemed to be the shot that was the beginning of the end for Spence. The referee takes a close look and allows the fight to continue. Here, Crawford wasted no time in pressuring and landing. He positions Spence up against the ropes, and beings to land clean, powerful shots giving the referee no choice but to stop the fight in the ninth.
Why Terence Crawford is Special:
No one expected such a one sided affair between these two fighters. Crawford had previously been criticised for not taking challenging fights. Last night, he silenced his critics and proved his greatness. In the biggest test of his career, he delivered in outstanding, unquestionable fashion. Even acknowledged by Spence who stated “He was just better tonight. He was using the jab, He was just the better man tonight”.
What happens next?
This fight contract included a two-way rematch clause which can be initiated by the loser within 30-days of the fight. However, the winner decides whether the next fight takes place at 147lbs or 154lbs. With Spence making it clear of his intentions to leave the 147lbs division, Crawford has the ability to make the next fight even harder for his Spence.
Errol Spence Jr:
By no means should Errol Spence be looked down on for his performance last night. He showed heart, will to win, and gave everything he has in his arsenal. However, he was found to be levels apart from his opponent. This fight showed shades of Garcia vs Davies, both being elite fighters, with one proving to be levels above on the night.
What are your thoughts on the fight and the performance from Terence Crawford ? and Let us know in the comments!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
