By Lem Satterfield

Top Rank Promotions is expected to soon sign unbeaten lightweight prospect Terence Crawford of Omaha, Nebraska, according to the fighter's manager, Cameron Dunkin.

"He's fighting on July 30 in Denver, and he's signing with Top Rank. I'm faxing over the contracts today. This guy can really fight."

Although he has an orthodox style, Crawford, said Dunkin, sparred with 27-year-old WBO junior welterweight titlist Timothy Bradley (27-0, 11 KOs) prior to Bradley's unanimous decision that dethroned 24-year-old southpaw WBC belt-holder Devon Alexander (21-1, 13 KOs) in January.

"Terence went out and sparred with Tim Bradley for Timmy's last fight with Devon Alexander," said Dunkin. "And Timmy said, 'Where did you get this guy?'"