Boxing loses one of its pound-for-pound greats as Terence Crawford confirms his retirement at 38 years old. The announcement came via social media video on Tuesday, ending speculation about his future following his September masterclass against Canelo Álvarez in Las Vegas.
Crawford’s decision to step away comes while he still reigns as the WBA, IBF, and WBO super middleweight champion, having dismantled Álvarez in a unanimous decision victory that many consider the crowning achievement of his illustrious career. The win over one of boxing’s biggest stars provided the perfect exclamation point to an already legendary career.
The Nebraska fighter explained that his retirement wasn’t driven by inability or injury, but rather by achieving his goals and earning the right to leave on his own terms. Throughout his emotional announcement, Crawford reflected on fighting for his family, his hometown, and the young of himself who dared to dream big despite humble beginnings.
Crawford’s ascent through boxing’s ranks was nothing short of spectacular. After turning professional in 2008, he quickly established himself as an elite talent, winning his first world championship in 2014 against Ricky Burns. His ability to adapt and overcome challenges at lightweight eventually translated to success at higher weight classes, demonstrating his exceptional ring intelligence and skill.
His final record speaks volumes: 42 wins, zero losses, 31 knockouts, and never touched the canvas from a knockdown. Crawford collected 18 world titles across five different weight divisions, dominating each one with surgical precision. His technical mastery ensured that no judge ever scored a bout in favor of any opponent he faced, making him one of the most dominant champions in modern boxing history.