If Canelo Alvarez is who Terence Crawford wants, then it appears that’s who he will get.

As previously reported by The Ring, Alvarez and Crawford have held discussions regarding a mega matchup. All along, The Ring, WBA, WBC, and WBO super middleweight champion appeared apathetic toward the entire situation but things have now changed.

Alvarez, 34, enjoyed himself a terrific 2024. All year long, he spent his time stripping both Jaime Munguia and Edgar Berlanga of their undefeated records. Crawford, on the other hand, made his 154-pound debut against Israil Madrimov.

With Crawford closer than ever to an Alvarez showdown, Paulie Malignaggi is keeping close tabs on how things could play out. On paper, Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs) represents an all-time great fighter, one who will have a significant size advantage. But in terms of skills, Malignaggi doesn’t believe the pound-for-pound star will be the best fighter Crawford has ever faced. In fact, he’s convinced that Alvarez isn’t even as good as the fighter Crawford recently outpointed.

“I think Madrimov’s a better fighter than Canelo,” explained Malignaggi to Tha Boxing Voice. “Especially the Canelo at this point but he’s still big and strong. I think Madrimov will have made Crawford think more than Canelo will.”

Skills aren’t something Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) ever had to worry about when he stepped into a ring and according to Malignaggi, that won’t be changing. Crawford though, has placed himself into a corner.

Even with the massive difference in weight, Crawford has stated on numerous occasions that he would have no problem moving up to 168 pounds for a one-off with Alvarez.

Malignaggi admires Crawford and his willingness to cut no corners. However, unless they can find a middle ground weight-wise, the former two-division belt holder isn’t confident that Crawford will be able to do what he always does and have his hand raised.

“I think he’s way more skilled than Canelo but I’m not sure he’s got enough to overcome the size difference. Weight classes exist for a reason.”