Let’s start with the obvious question: What the heck?
Terence Crawford, boxing’s pound-for-pound king, is fighting a guy with a professional record of 10-0-1?
Well, Israin Madrimov is more than a guy. He’s a seasoned, 29-year-old fighter from Uzbekistan who’s logged 370 amateur fights and good enough to win the WBA super welterweight title in March.
Therein lies the appeal for Crawford (40-0 with 31 knockouts).
At 36, Crawford is aiming to win a title in a fourth weight division, and continuing a steady climb in weight to prepare him for a potential showdown with Canelo Alvarez.
But this could prove to be an entertaining test for Crawford.
Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov fight time
The PPV card starts at 4:30 p.m. ET.
How to watch Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov
The fight is available on DAZN for $79.99 plus a one-month subscription.
Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov predictions
Tom Gray, The Sporting News: Because Madrimov is not a household name, many fans and experts will write him off. That’s a mistake because this a tougher challenge for Crawford than Errol Spence, stylistically and physically, so don’t be looking for an early night.
Brent Brookhouse, CBS Sports: Madrimov will likely have some success at times in the early rounds before Crawford locks in his plan of attack and takes over. Once Crawford gets rolling, it’s nearly impossible to stop that momentum. Prediction: Crawford by TKO in Round 8.
Norman Frauenheim, The Ring: There’s a lot to like about Israil Madrimov, a versatile fighter who celebrates victories with a back flip. But there’ll be no back flip this time, not against Crawford. Prediction: Crawford, TKO in Round 11.
Josh Peter, USA TODAY Sports: Madrimov gets off to a strong start. And finishes strong, too. Prediction: Madrimov by UD.
Did Terence Crawford compete at the Olympics?
He lost in the 2008 U.S. Olympic trials despite being the No. 1 ranked amateur lightweight in the United States at the time.
Will Terence Crawford walk out with Eminem?
Eminem walked out Crawford for his fight against Errol Spence Jr. last year. Considering Crawford demolished Spencer and won by TKO, don’t be surprised to see Eminem again Saturday night.
Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov odds
DraftKings: Crawford -700 favorite, Madrimov +475 underdog
FuelDuel: Crawford -770, Madrimov +480
BETMGM: Crawford -700, Madrimov +425
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