Imagine a boxing world where Terence Crawford, fresh off dethroning the legendary Canelo Alvarez, hangs up his gloves. It’s a reality that’s already happened, and now, the mastermind behind Crawford’s triumph, trainer Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre, is dropping a bombshell: he’s got the blueprint to beat Canelo again. But here’s where it gets controversial—he believes his protégé, Lester Martinez, is the man for the job.
Crawford’s victory over Canelo was no small feat. Jumping up two weight classes to challenge for the undisputed super-middleweight title, Crawford pulled off a unanimous decision win, cementing his legacy as a five-division champion. Shortly after, the 38-year-old from Omaha, Nebraska, announced his retirement, capping an undefeated career guided by BoMac from the amateur ranks to the pinnacle of professional boxing. (https://boxingnewsonline.net/news/terence-crawford-announces-retirement/)
With Canelo set to return in September (https://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/47623740/canelo-alvarez-return-ring-big-fight-sept-12) in pursuit of more glory, BoMac is confident Martinez can halt the Mexican icon’s momentum. Speaking to Pro Box TV (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KxjUutCqDs), BoMac revealed that Martinez played a pivotal role in Crawford’s preparation for Canelo, pushing him to new heights in sparring sessions.
‘Lester Martinez is a name people are starting to buzz about, and for good reason,’ BoMac said. ‘I genuinely believe he has what it takes to beat Canelo. We’ve got the blueprint, remember?’
And this is the part most people miss—Martinez’s role in Crawford’s success wasn’t just about physical conditioning. It was about forcing Crawford to adapt, to switch up his styles, and to overcome challenges that mirrored Canelo’s strengths. ‘Lester’s weaknesses could sometimes work against him, but he pushed Terence to a level he needed to reach,’ BoMac explained. ‘It was phenomenal to watch Bud’s greatness unfold in those moments.’
Martinez, a 30-year-old Guatemalan with just 20 fights under his belt, is still early in his career but already making waves. His recent split draw against Christian Mbilli for the WBC interim title on the Canelo–Crawford undercard showcased his potential. Mbilli, now upgraded to full champion following Crawford’s retirement, may still face Martinez in a rematch, though Canelo himself looms as another potential opponent.
With BoMac in his corner, many believe Martinez is on the cusp of a world title. But the question remains: Can he replicate Crawford’s success against Canelo? BoMac thinks so, but it’s a bold claim that’s sure to spark debate. First, Martinez must get past Immanuwel Aleem on March 21, another shot at the interim WBC strap.
Here’s the million-dollar question: Is Lester Martinez the next fighter to dethrone Canelo, or is BoMac’s confidence misplaced? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—do you think Martinez has what it takes, or is Canelo’s reign untouchable?
