Crawford's Race For Pacquiao Fight Now Involves COVID-19 Factor

WBO Welterweight champion Terence Crawford is one of the hottest names in boxing right now with several fighters linked to him. Among the big names include Manny Pacquiao and Errol Spence although it appears the former will most likely be his next fight.

In a previous report, Top Rank promoter Bob Arum revealed how tentative talks were being held to book a Crawford vs. Pacquiao fight. This started even before the COVID-19 pandemic and nothing has prospered since. Arum admitted that he felt Pacquiao held low odds of surviving Crawford when there were plans to have both fighters meet years back. But the 86-year-old felt that the Pac-Man is now ready, having beaten fighters such as Lucas Matthysse, Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman.

Crawford admitted that he has been trying to book a fight with Pacquiao since 2015. But the showdown never materialized due to one reason or another. The eight-time division champion ended up facing other fighters like Brandon Rios, Jesse Vargas, and Tim Bradley. Such led Bud to wonder why he was unable to land a fight with the Pac-Man.

“Back when I was trying to fight him, he was fighting guys like Brandon Rios, Jessie Vargas, Tim Bradley two more times. I don’t know what it was. I just think they didn’t like my style or whatever it was," Crawford said to ESPN (via Boxingscene).

But now, the scenario is different. Crawford has become a household name and it makes sense to finally see him facing the one boxer lacking on his resume. And based on what Arum is trying to cook up, it appears that a mega-fight could be happening soon.

Unfortunately, the coronavirus has complicated matters. A Crawford vs. Pacquiao fight can undoubtedly reel in big revenue. But with most sporting events to be held indoors or without fans in attendance, earning potential is questionable.

Finally, Crawford knows that Pacquiao is at the point where he could retire at any moment. Pacquiao is 41-years-old and the fights he may agree on will be limited. For now, Crawford hopes that he would be lucky enough to be among the last fighters Pacquiao will face. And based on the latest talks plus the potential money that can be earned, Crawford is clearly in the lead.