Terence Crawford is rarely anything but cool, calm and collected when he goes about his business in the sport of boxing, but one world champion has succeeded in getting a rise out of him.
The 37-year-old from Omaha, Nebraska recently further cemented his case as the best fighter on the planet by becoming a champion in his fourth division. That super-welterweight win over previously undefeated Israil Madrimov took ‘Bud’ Crawford to 41 wins with 31 knockouts and zero losses.
Though he has been clear that he wants a fight with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, and there is a general feeling that it may be the only match-up he will take, there are plenty of other fighters looking for a shot at the man many consider the pound-for-pound number one.
That includes super-lightweight world champion Teofimo Lopez, who has been attempting to land the fight by any means necessary, including approaching Crawford at events and using controversial language perceived by most to be racist. He strongly denies that.
Following a ringside altercation, Crawford said that he felt disrespected enough by Teofimo and his father / trainer Lopez Sr that he was willing to ‘beat his ass outside the ring.’ Though Lopez has responded to dismiss the idea, Crawford has now double down in a recent Instagram Live.
“If we was to fight right now on the streets I’d break your f***ing neck. And that’s on my kids. You know it, I know it and the whole word know it. And I’m not talking about no fighting in the ring. If me and you was to fight outside I’ll break your neck.”
It’s a new look from Crawford, who has even in his most competitive rivalries always remained respectful. Whether or not Lopez’ quest to goad him into a fight will bear fruit remains to be seen. Right now it seems unlikely.
