Pacquiao Picks Between Mayweather And Crawford

Boxing legend weighs in on hypothetical welterweight clash

Apr. 16, 2026 at 7:55am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the action and movement of a boxing match, with sharp planes and overlapping perspectives, capturing the intensity and skill of the two fighters.A cubist interpretation of a hypothetical welterweight clash between two all-time greats, Mayweather and Crawford.Los Angeles Today

Manny Pacquiao believes Terence Crawford's southpaw stance and versatility would give him an advantage over a prime Floyd Mayweather in a hypothetical welterweight matchup. Pacquiao, who lost to Mayweather in 2015, thinks Crawford's ability to seamlessly switch between orthodox and southpaw would be a key factor in neutralizing Mayweather's defensive skills.

Why it matters

This debate highlights the enduring legacy of two all-time great welterweights, Mayweather and Crawford, and the ongoing discussions among boxing fans and experts about who would prevail in a hypothetical clash between the two. Pacquiao's perspective, as a former opponent of Mayweather, adds valuable insight to this discussion.

The details

Pacquiao believes Crawford's southpaw stance and versatility would give him an advantage over Mayweather. While Mayweather's 'Philly Shell' defense was nearly impenetrable for orthodox fighters, Pacquiao feels its effectiveness against an elite southpaw like Crawford would be tested. Crawford is perhaps the greatest 'switch-hitter' in boxing history, able to seamlessly transition between orthodox and southpaw, which could force Mayweather to constantly recalibrate his lead-foot placement and potentially strip him of his counter-punching abilities.

  • In 2015, Pacquiao lost a unanimous decision to Mayweather.
  • Pacquiao recently weighed in on a hypothetical welterweight clash between Mayweather and Crawford.

The players

Manny Pacquiao

A boxing legend and former opponent of Floyd Mayweather, who believes Terence Crawford's southpaw stance and versatility would give him an advantage over a prime Mayweather.

Floyd Mayweather

One of the greatest welterweights of all time, known for his defensive 'Philly Shell' style and ability to make mid-fight adjustments.

Terence Crawford

A current welterweight champion and perhaps the greatest 'switch-hitter' in boxing history, with the ability to seamlessly transition between orthodox and southpaw stances.

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What they’re saying

“I think Terence Crawford, in both primes. He has an advantage – southpaw. I saw Crawford as a southpaw, he mastered it. He knows how to maximise his advantage.”

— Manny Pacquiao, Boxing Legend

The takeaway

This debate highlights the enduring legacy of two all-time great welterweights, Mayweather and Crawford, and the ongoing discussions among boxing fans and experts about who would prevail in a hypothetical clash between the two. Pacquiao's perspective, as a former opponent of Mayweather, adds valuable insight to this discussion and underscores the importance of versatility and adaptability in the sport of boxing.