Terence Crawford Steps Back from Boxing, Sharing His Joyful Farewell
On Tuesday, Terence Crawford announced his retirement from boxing, a surprising decision that concludes one of the most illustrious careers in modern boxing history. At 38 years old, the Omaha native leaves the sport undefeated, solidifying his status among the all-time greats.
Crawford retires with a flawless record of 42 wins, including 31 by knockout, after an impressive 17-year professional journey. He departs with four titles in the 168-pound weight class.
In a heartfelt YouTube video, Crawford stated, “I’m retiring from competition, not because I’ve stopped fighting, but because I’ve won another kind of battle. The battle where you retire on your own terms.”
One of the defining moments of Crawford’s career came with his victory over Errol Spence Jr., which crowned him the undisputed welterweight champion. His super middleweight triumph over Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez further solidified his legacy. In September, Crawford moved up in weight to take on Álvarez in Las Vegas, winning by unanimous decision and becoming the undisputed super welterweight champion—a feat previously deemed nearly impossible.
“Every boxer knows this moment will come; we just never know when,” Crawford reflected in his announcement.
Speculation surrounded potential rematches and new challenges after his monumental fight with Álvarez, but Crawford chose to step away. He emphasized that his decision stemmed not from a lack of ability, but from a personal conviction that he had reached the peak of his potential in the ring.
“I’ve spent my whole life chasing something,” he expressed. “Not belts, not money, not headlines. But that feeling, the feeling you get when the world doubts you, but you keep going and prove everyone wrong.”
Since his debut in 2008, Crawford has showcased remarkable versatility and tactical intelligence, adapting seamlessly to various opponents and circumstances. With a mastery of boxing techniques, he has excelled in both left-handed and right-handed stances.
“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 my way. I gave this sport every last breath I had,” he stated.
Throughout his career, Crawford claimed world titles in multiple weight divisions and secured his place among the pound-for-pound elite of contemporary boxing. Earning the title of undisputed champion in three different categories during the era of four major belts, he consistently silenced critics with his compelling performances.
“I’m leaving like a great,” Crawford concluded.
