Hello from my cozy vacation spot, where I’m taking a brief pause to deliver this special edition of the most uncensored boxing column that’s ever graced (or offended) the internet. The same column that makes certain critics wail, “Fighthype, why do you let him speak?” on social media platforms.
And speaking of these critics, a notable mention goes to a particular contributor from “New Era” Ring Magazine. This individual has been snooping around these columns with the same frantic energy you’d expect from someone scavenging for change from Turki Alalshikh’s upholstery.
Now, onto what caught my eye this week:
I’m conflicted about Canelo Alvarez facing Terence Crawford. Let’s be real here—unless you’re knee-deep in event propaganda, you’ll agree this fight is utterly pointless. It’s a matchup of two top fighters who should really be clashing with peers in their respective weight classes. This bout feels like a squandered opportunity, a space that could be better occupied by more deserving fights. Ultimately, it’s happening because Crawford is a pet project for Saudi figurehead Turki Alalshikh, and Canelo, well, he’s pocketing a hefty payday to battle someone he’s openly labeled as undersized for a fight with him.
But…
When Crawford hands Canelo his defeat, it’ll be a whirlwind of karma hitting everyone hard, like a noxious wave from the media section. This poorly constructed spectacle will see Canelo suffer the most humiliating loss of his career, while the Saudis will be left with a victorious Crawford who, despite his skills, struggles to capture the wider public’s interest outside of Omaha.
I’ve been a longtime fan of Crawford and have respected Canelo’s journey, but honestly, they both could use a reality check about now. This might be one of those fights where I’m actually rooting for some well-deserved humbling rather than a particular outcome. Hopefully, this experience will push them back toward fighting meaningful bouts in the twilight of their careers.
Regardless of the Canelo-Crawford outcome, though, I have little optimism that either will have an epiphany about boxing and start making the right fights happen. Some people just can’t change their ways.
The Saudis’ acquisition of Canelo at this career point feels poetic for anyone uneasy with boxing’s current role as a dubious asset for oppressive regimes. Acquiring 2025 Canelo is akin to the Washington Wizards snapping up Michael Jordan back in 2001. His star power has plateaued, his hunger has waned, and his appeal isn’t what it used to be. Despite having cash to burn, this Canelo endeavor seems like they’re dumping money into a furnace.
So, do I have an agenda in saying all this? Of course. I’m unapologetically all-in for American boxing, orchestrated by American enterprises, for the enjoyment of the American audience. And my other agendas? They revolve around despising bullies, swindlers, and the fools enabling them. That’s it.
Despite penning fight previews for the PBC, I wouldn’t lose a wink of sleep if Al Haymon took off in a spaceship full of office supplies. I support PBC because I appreciate their attempt to decentralize the sport’s power structure, moving away from promoter dominance and handing more power to the fighters. They’ve been a bulwark against a full-on Saudi boxing takeover in the US. I’ve critiqued them openly—even while freelancing for them—which says a lot about their class compared to the circus at Ring Magazine, where everyone’s busy spinning webs of disinformation with a smile.
My primary concern isn’t making buddies within the industry or buttering up for career breaks. Some might say that maintaining integrity, away from the influence of industry manipulators, is the right path. But this is boxing, and some individuals only know how to feed at the trough.
For myself, I’ve reached a point where I refuse to write about uninspiring boxing events merely to churn out content. Not interested. I commend those with the patience to pen “Fighter X is eager for a title shot” without losing their sanity, but that’s not me.
Back to the sport.
Take Jake Paul—he might be as irritating as those moaning about stale media snacks, but you can’t deny his initiative. His recent moves to sign female fighters and secure Amanda Serrano with a lifetime deal through his Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) are commendable and much-needed in the landscape of women’s boxing. Finally, there’s momentum building in an area that’s long been ignored.
See? Outsiders can bring valuable change—so long as they’re not the type silencing critics or playing morally bankrupt games. And certainly not the type hiring “real journalists” who can’t write a coherent post-fight summary.
And please, Deontay Wilder, think twice about your “Legacy Reloaded” comeback. Brain health is serious business—just glance at the confusing editorials at Ring Magazine these days for proof.
And yes, I’m aware of the boxing matches that took place this weekend. They’re recorded, ready for me to dive into once I’m back home. Meanwhile, I’m enjoying this break from the chaotic boxing scene.
Want to share thoughts with Magno? Drop a line here: [email protected].
