Crawford vs Diaz official for MSG on May 20

Terence Crawford’s next title defense is officially set, as he and challenger Felix Diaz announced the May 20 fight on Tuesday in New York.

Crawford will be headlining the main room at Madison Square Garden for the first time with the HBO main event. He’ll be defending the WBC and WBO junior welterweight titles.

Bob Arum, Top Rank promoter

"Crawford vs. Diaz was made for The Garden and I anticipate a battle between these two warriors worthy of its moniker as the Mecca of Boxing.”

Terence Crawford

"Come May 20, I will be ready for whatever Felix Díaz brings to the ring that night. It’s going to be a great experience fighting at Madison Square Garden in the big arena where all the greats have fought. I’m looking forward to that night."

Brian McIntyre, Crawford’s trainer and co-manager

"We’ve got our work cut out for us fighting against another Olympic gold medalist. It’s an honor to fight in the arena at Madison Square Garden. It’s a step up going from The Theater into the big room."

Felix Diaz

"The time has finally come. I will share a ring with one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world and I tip my hat to Crawford for accepting me as an opponent on May 20 because I am no pushover. I'm coming to bring my A-game and I couldn't be more grateful to be able to showcase my skills on HBO and at Madison Square Garden, which is just 15 minutes from where I live. I will take full advantage of this opportunity. I respect Crawford and believe he is a great fighter, but every king can be dethroned."

Lou DiBella, Diaz’s promoter

"Felix Diaz is an Olympic gold medalist, a seasoned professional and the best fighter Terence Crawford has ever fought. We have been chasing this fight for a year because Felix and our team believe we can win. The fans will win when they see a terrific, competitive fight on May 20th.”

Peter Nelson, HBO Sports

"On May 20, unified champ Terence Crawford faces gold medalist Felix Díaz in a fight to light up Madison Square Garden. Holding two belts and a place on any top pound for pound list, Terence Crawford looks to have his 2017 debut make a big statement in the Big Apple. Fans will see both fighters' mettle tested at the Mecca of Boxing."