The newly crowned undisputed super middleweight champion, Terence “Bud” Crawford, is at a crucial point in his career. After defeating Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, the American holds the WBC, WBA, WBO and IBF titles, and must now decide whether to prioritise legacy or big money in his next move.
Millionaire rematch with Canelo?
Although many doubt the appeal of an immediate rematch, Crawford might be tempted by the money a second fight with Alvarez would generate. His trainer, Robert Garcia, told YSM Sports Media that Crawford “knows he would win again and that’s a lot of money.” According to the strategist, the American could repeat the victory and retire from boxing for good.
Other options on the table
Among Crawford’s possible rivals are Zhanibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly, the current IBF and WBO middleweight champion, who would give “Bud” the opportunity to become a sixth division champion. Other names include Christian “Solide” Mbilli, Sebastian Fundora, Keith Thurman, Jermall Charlo, Bakhram Murtazaliev, Xander Zayas, Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara and Vergil Ortiz Jr., all of whom have merits and styles that could represent an interesting challenge.
Trainer Robert Garcia does not rule out that Crawford may choose to retire at the top. “He could retire now and be remembered as one of the greatest of all time. But a lot of money means a rematch and to win it again. He told me a year ago that after this fight he would probably retire,” he said.
Legacy or money?
With a stable life outside the ring and without excessive economic ambitions, Crawford seems to have the freedom to choose how he wants to close his career. Whether it’s a rematch against Canelo, a challenge in another division or an immediate retirement, the decision will mark his definitive place in boxing history.
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