Terence Crawford has surprised the boxing world with a major update on his career.
Crawford is already regarded as one of the best boxers of recent times, further cementing his legacy when he stepped up two divisions and defeated Canelo Alvarez in September to become the undisputed super-middleweight world champion.
It saw ‘Bud’ become the first male fighter in history to be undisputed in three separate divisions, whilst he has also earned world honours at 135lbs and 154lbs.
The likely next move for Crawford appeared to be a move to middleweight in a bid to become a six-division world champion, but that will no longer be happening after he made a shock and abrupt announcement.
In a video posted on his own YouTube channel, Crawford revealed that he has made the decision to retire from the sport, explaining exactly why he has come to that outcome.
“Every fighter knows this moment will come. We just never know when. I spent my whole life chasing something. Not belts, not money, not headlines, but that feeling, the one you get when the world doubts you but you keep showing up and you keep proving everyone wrong.
“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 that 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 spar, every triumph, every ounce of my heart. I’ve made peace with what’s next. Now, it’s time. Thank you.
“I’m stepping away from competition. Not because I’m done fighting, but because I’ve won a different kind of battle. The one where you walk away on your own terms. This isn’t goodbye, it’s just the end of one fight, and the beginning of another.”
Crawford remarkable career began way back in 2008, and the 38-year-old now hangs up the gloves with a perfect record of 42-0.
