While no one was completely surprised when Terence Crawford announced his retirement in mid-December, there was a lingering feeling that he was leaving the sport while still in his prime. At 38 years old, he had just soundly beaten Canelo Alvarez and could have picked any other opponent next, and he would likely be favored.
But “Bud” decided to go out on top, “walking away as a great with nothing left to prove“. He truly didn’t have to prove anything else to anyone, but his fans wanted to continue seeing him in action. Now, Crawford is focusing on his family life and paving the way for the next generation of boxers.
Terence Crawford named Ring Magazine’s Male Fighter of the Year for 2025
On Friday night, he was able to turn back the clock – not too far – by showing up at Ring Magazine’s “The Ring Awards”, where he was named the Male Fighter of the Year. But before he got on the stage, it was an interview on the red carpet that sparked some intrigue.
Crawford was asked if it felt different attending a boxing event as a retired fighter. His answer showed that he still has the competitive nature in his bones.
A little bit. I done put it behind me, but I still got that fight in me. But at the same time, it feels great to be one of the pioneers that paved the way for the younger fighters that’s coming behind me.
Crawford could fight at an elite level right now and probably for the next few years if he wanted to. Despite the fire still burning within him, he does seem at peace with his retirement decision. But he surely knows he could go toe-to-toe with anyone at the awards ceremony if he pleased.
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