At 37 years of age, Terence Crawford is preparing for a major challenge against Canelo Alvarez on September 13 at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The Nebraska native has hinted that this fight could mark the definitive end of his career in professional boxing.
With an unblemished record of 41 wins and 31 knockouts, Crawford holds world titles in two divisions. Victory at 168 pounds would not only be a historic feat, but would also gloriously close his legacy by entering an elite club as an undisputed champion in three categories.
The desire to retire: a confession to Turki Alalshikh
It was Turki Alalshikh, a senior GEA executive and promoter of the event, who revealed a key moment: Crawford, during their first meeting in London, confessed: “I want this to be my retirement fight”. According to Alalshikh, that statement sealed the decision that the duel against Canelo would also be the Nebraskan’s farewell.
Alalshikh added that he saw in the boxer a mixture of love for the sport and determination: “Now I see it in Crawford’s eyes, because he loves boxing,” an indication that, despite the physical wear and tear, there is a true passion to leave an indelible mark.
Retirement with dignity: Crawford’s voice on the risks of boxing
In an interview with Piers Morgan, Crawford candidly admitted that he does not expect to stay in the ring beyond reason: “I always say that I was going to retire from boxing. I wasn’t going to let boxing retire me”, he said, making it clear that he prefers to choose his own moment.
The veteran boxer also acknowledged the long-term dangers of the sport: “This is the sport we move in… we know what awaits us,” he said, referring to the physical toll the body takes over time. His stance shows that he is determined to get out in time, not allowing boxing to mark the end for him.
If Crawford beats Canelo, he would conclude a stellar career as a three-weight undisputed champion, crowning his attempt to conquer a historic place. If he loses, he will face public debate, although his legacy would remain intact. For now, September 13 could signal the end of a great chapter or the glorious culmination of a lifetime’s effort.
Read the full article here
