According to Eddie Hearn, Israil Madrimov is widely regarded as the top super-welterweight globally. However, Hearn acknowledges that Madrimov is up against a formidable opponent in Terence Crawford, whom he considers a “genius” in the sport.
Madrimov, with a record of 10 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw, including 7 knockouts, is set to defend his WBA world title against Crawford in an outdoor bout at the BMO Stadium on August 3. This event holds great significance as it kickstarts the Riyadh Season in America, and it has successfully united various promoters, allowing fighters like Andy Ruiz, Jarrell Miller, David Morrell, Andy Cruz, Tim Tszyu, Vergil Ortiz Jr, and Isaac Cruz to showcase their skills on the same platform.
Terence Crawford, the pound-for-pound number one with an impressive 40-0 (31) record, is set to compete for a world title in his fourth weight class. Having already secured belts in lightweight, super-lightweight, and welterweight divisions, the talented Nebraskan is now aiming to solidify his position in the sport by pursuing success in the super-welterweight category.
“Madrimov is the best 154-pounder in the world, I really believe that,” Hearn told Boxing News in New York after today’s launch press conference.
“Terence come straight out the gate and he wanted all the champions. His Excellency (Turki Alalshikh) reached out to me. We made the fight, the main event on a huge card but as I said to him, ‘Every fighter gets old, every fighter steps [up] one weight class too many’.”
As expected, Hearn is advocating for his fighter, but not without acknowledging the level of opposition they are facing. The Matchroom promoter went as far as highlighting some of Madrimov’s impressive qualities.
“Madrimov possesses exceptional footwork, demonstrating elusiveness and skillful defense. His punches carry immense power, yet we acknowledge that we are facing the pound-for-pound top-ranked fighter. This individual is truly a genius in the ring, having achieved undisputed status at multiple weight classes – ’40, ’47, and now aiming for ’54. In retrospect, he may be regarded as the greatest fighter of our generation.”
Hearn expressed his delight in collaborating with Terence once more, recalling the heartbreak he experienced when Terence defeated Ricky Burns in Glasgow years ago. He further mentioned the heartbreak inflicted on them by Terence’s victory against Julius Indongo to become undisputed. Now, the time has come for them to return the favor and break Terence’s heart.
