Terence Crawford isn’t the type to care about historical rankings. He knows that his name should be mentioned amongst the best and the opinions of those making those lists should be respected.

However, opinions are one thing, facts are another. With a showdown against Canelo Alvarez officially on the board and set to take place this coming September, Crawford’s imagination begins to take over. His eyes grew wide once he was presented with the dollar amount he would be making but those same eyes grew even wider when he thought about the ramifications surrounding a win.

If everything goes according to plan, from his point of view, the amount of fighters you’ll be able to rank above him all-time, is incredibly small.

“I would definitely rank top 5,” said Crawford to Cigar Talk when asked how a win over Alvarez would affect his legacy. “I’m really moving up three weight classes, fighting arguably one of the best Mexicans ever, at his weight, no rehydration clause, no nothing. You just fighting him at his best.”

Some call it sagacious. Others view it as career suicide. But for Crawford, with no risk, there simply is no reward. But before the calendar hits September, May will arrive first. On the third of the month, The Ring, WBA, WBC, and WBO super middleweight champ will attempt to become an undisputed titlist once again when he takes on William Scull.

Crawford, in the meanwhile, won’t just be sitting around looking at the ceiling. He’ll be busy in the weight room and carving out a game plan he believes will lead him to victory.

There's a lot on the line for the current WBA junior middleweight belt holder. If he were to retire right now, the Hall of Fame would instantly call his name. He’ll also be viewed as one of the best of his generation. A fair assessment. But while his current placement amongst his peers is salient, being amongst the best of the best ever, ranks a bit higher.

“I feel like winning this fight is gonna solidify me as an all-time great.”