Pound-for-pound great Terence Crawford cemented himself as one of the greatest fighters of all time when he defeated Canelo Alvarez earlier this month.
‘Bud’ put on an impressive display to extend his professional record to 42-0 and become the first male fighter in the history of the sport to be four-belt undisputed championship in three weight classes, having previously achieved this feat at super-lightweight and welterweight.
Speaking on 4th&1 With Cam Newton, Crawford paid homage to countryman Floyd Mayweather Jr, saying he would ‘never’ compare himself to the five-division world champion who he says is the ‘one of the greatest fighters of all time’.
“That’s the GOAT. [Mayweather is] one of the GOATs. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Mayweather. I would never compare myself to Mayweather. He’s the greatest of his era, and I’m the greatest of my era.
“I don’t understand why, especially our people, hate on Mayweather so much. He made so much history for us. He paved the way for me to be where I’m at. He motivated me in so many ways outside the ring with work ethic, hard work, dedication, that I can’t even say.”
Mayweather is regarded by many fans and analysts as being one of, if not the greatest fighters in boxing history. The Michigan-native remained unbeaten for the entire duration of his 50-fight career, defeating the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto and Manny Pacquiao to name just a few.
Whilst the debate on who is the better fighter between Crawford and Mayweather continues, the boxing community can agree that they have both earned the fight to be considered all time greats.
