Eddie Hearn has warned boxing fans not to look past Israil Madrimov when he faces Terence Crawford on August 3.
The pair will meet in Los Angeles, live on DAZN, and Madrimov will be putting his world title at 154lbs up for grabs against the Nebraska man.
If Crwaford secures the win and becomes a four-weight world champion, it’s very likely that he will jump up in weight to face Canelo Alvarez.
First though, he faces a stern assignment against Madrimov and Hearn has had his say on the bout.
“I think they’re underestimating him. He’s extremely tough, he hits very hard, and it’s all like, ‘Canelo after this,’ said Hearn when speaking to FightHype.
“Don’t get me wrong. Crawford is the favourite in the fight, but Madrimov is a very, very tough fight. He’s got great movement, he’s a fit, strong guy in his prime, and as I said, he punches very hard, and that’s not an easy fight.”
