Terence Crawford is a boxer who has yet to hit it big time and, apparently, this is because while he has been turning out impressive fights, he has yet to fight a big name. But with some luck, that could happen in 2016.
Crawford is one of the three names mentioned by Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao's camp as the Filipino boxer's possible opponent for 2016, the last fight of Pacman before he concentrates on the world of politics.
It will be Pacman's return fight after undergoing shoulder surgery, something that will be surely watched. And whomever he faces will likely get the blessing of having the bragging rights of fighting one of the world's best boxers, win or lose.
Crawford doesn't hold any control right now on whether or not he would be the chosen one but based on his last fight, he does seem like the frontrunner for the slot. Amir Khan will likely oppose that, but his knack for constantly shooting out his mind has caused him more trouble than good.
Khan has longed for a big fight and this could be his last chance at one since Pacquiao is reportedy set on retiring as well. The key for him is to simply go with the flow and keep his mouth shut.
The third name in the mix is Timothy Bradley Jr. who will face Brandon Rios on Nov. 7. If Bradley likewise churns out an impressive performance, he could get the nod.
But the thing about Bradley is that he has faced Pacquiao before. They are an even 1–1 so a third match could be the tie-breaker. However, will it be the fight people want to see?
Chances are people will want someone new, someone that will give Pacquiao trouble. Between Crawford and Khan, it is obvious that that former is someone new.
Pacquiao is expected to name his official opponent for 2016 before the year ends.
