Additional Coverage:
- Terence Crawford retires: ‘Bud’ walks away from boxing after earning undisputed status in third division (cbssports.com)
Boxing Legend Terence Crawford Hangs Up His Gloves, Retires Undefeated
In a move that sends ripples through the boxing world, pound-for-pound king Terence Crawford announced his retirement on Tuesday evening, leaving the sport with a flawless 42-0-0 record, including 31 knockouts. Crawford, 38, departs at the pinnacle of his career, fresh off a dominant unanimous decision victory over Canelo Alvarez that cemented his status as the undisputed super middleweight champion and top pound-for-pound fighter.
Crawford’s illustrious career saw him claim five divisional titles, a testament to his exceptional skill and versatility. He made history as the first male fighter in the four-belt era to achieve undisputed champion status in three different weight classes: junior welterweight, welterweight, and super middleweight.
Only boxing titans Manny Pacquiao and Oscar De La Hoya boast world titles in more weight classes. His perfect 20-0 record in title fights, with 15 KOs, further underscores his dominance.
In a video released on his YouTube channel, Crawford expressed his gratitude to fans, detractors, and opponents alike, acknowledging their roles in pushing him to greatness. He stated he is “at peace” with his decision to step away.
“You just never know when. I spent my whole life chasing something.
Not belts. Not money.
Not headlines. But that feeling, that one you get when the world doubts you, but you keep showing up and you keep proving everyone wrong,” Crawford shared.
“This sport gave me everything. I fought for my family.
I fought for my city. I fought for the kid I used to be, the one who had nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves.
And I did it all my way. I gave this sport every breath I have.
Every scar. Every triumph.
Every ounce of my heart. And I’ve made peace with what’s next.
Now, it’s time. Thank you.”
While boxing retirements often come with the caveat of potential comebacks, Crawford’s departure appears definitive. Having conquered every challenge and reached the sport’s highest echelons, he leaves with no further mountains to climb, opting to pursue life beyond the ring. As he articulated, the pursuit itself was his driving force, and with the summit reached, it’s time for a new chapter.