“It’s your time, it’s your time,” said Mike Tyson. He was pointing at a lively and animated Keyshawn Davis, who was gesturing toward the current kings of boxing. The WBO lightweight champion had joined close friend Shakur Stevenson and Terence Crawford, alongside a host of legends, including Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis, Bernard Hopkins, and of course, Iron Mike himself, to watch the Ryan Garcia vs. Rolando Romero headliner, ‘Fatal Fury,’ unfold at Times Square. Just a day later, Terence Crawford boarded a flight to witness the Riyadh Season’s third consecutive blockbuster: Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull.

But unbeknownst to most, Crawford wasn’t there merely to spectate a potential future opponent. He was waiting for the final bell. Once the results were in and Canelo had dispatched Scull, Crawford stepped into the ring, joining Turki Alalshikh for the official announcement: Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford will square off in Las Vegas on September 12. As it happened before the Scull fight, most expect Canelo to overpower Crawford. But his performance tonight sparked fresh debate. Many now believe that Crawford may have a real shot at pulling off the unthinkable. And why not? After all, he’s received the backing of none other than the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history.

Greatness meets greatness

With Terence Crawford and Shakur Stevenson standing behind him, Keyshawn Davis, set to defend his title for the first time against Edwin De Los Santos, couldn’t hold back his emotions. “We got the best boxers in the town!” he shouted, removing his baseball cap. “We got Shakur Stevenson, Keyshawn Davis, Bud Crawford… Man, who can beat us? No body,” he added before pointing at Mike Tyson.

The former heavyweight champion and boxing legend soaked in the energy with a wide grin. After shaking hands with another icon, Roberto Duran, Keyshawn Davis began jumping with excitement, shouting, “We’re the best, we’re the best fighters right here! Stop playing!”

As the camera panned, it captured Mike Tyson posing for photos with Terence Crawford—one legend standing beside the pound-for-pound king of modern boxing. The celebration took place right on the edge of the ring, set up in the heart of Times Square.

Just a day later, it became official. It marks the biggest fight of his career and arguably one of the most anticipated bouts in recent boxing history. Terence Crawford will face Canelo Alvarez on September 12 in Las Vegas.

Boxing royalty salutes Terence Crawford

Mike Tyson has long seen greatness in Crawford. Last year, ahead of Crawford’s debut at 154 pounds against Israil Madrimov, a reporter asked Tyson, “Terence Crawford has the opportunity to become a four-division world champion tonight. Why are you a fan of Terence Crawford?” Tyson answered, “He had proved himself over the years, a great all-around fighter; he’s going to be very successful.”

Later, when asked, “Did you see Terence Crawford as an all-time great, Mike?” Iron Mike replied, “Big time, big time.”

The Canelo-Scull fight played out largely as expected. However, it left some fans feeling underwhelmed. Most directed their criticisms at Scull’s evasive tactics. But a portion was aimed at Canelo as well. With such a monumental fight now just four months away, many had hoped for a more dominant showing from the Mexican superstar.

That said, Canelo’s performance has encouraged those who worried about Crawford moving up two weight divisions. With the backing of fans, legends, and history, the Nebraska native will step into the ring riding a wave of momentum and belief.

Did you watch the Canelo-Scull fight? Do you think Crawford has a real shot at dethroning Canelo?