Terence “Bud” Crawford has announced the end of one of the most remarkable careers in modern boxing, choosing to walk away from the sport while still at the very top of his game.
The 38-year-old American confirmed on Tuesday that he will retire from professional boxing with an unbeaten record 42 wins, 31 by knockout and a legacy that very few fighters in history can match.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media and in a video posted to his YouTube channel, Crawford said he was “walking away as a great with nothing else left to prove.” He described his decision as stepping away on his own terms, not because he couldn’t fight anymore, but because he had already won a different kind of battle the one where a champion knows he has given everything to his craft.
From Omaha, Nebraska to the top of the boxing world, Terence Crawford’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. After going pro in 2008, he worked his way through division after division, winning world titles in five weight classes and securing undisputed status three times something rarely seen in modern boxing.
Among the standout moments of his career was a stunning victory in September when he moved up two weight divisions to defeat Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and claim the undisputed super-middleweight championship a win that many consider one of the defining performances of his career.
In his goodbye message, Crawford reflected on what boxing has meant to him, saying the sport gave him everything and more than he ever dreamed of as a young kid with a pair of gloves. He spoke about fighting for his family, his city, and the young version of himself who once dared to dream of greatness.
For fans and fighters alike, Crawford’s retirement marks the end of an era. Widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of his generation, he leaves behind a spotless record, countless memorable performances, and a legacy that will stand the test of time.
Some fans will always wonder if Crawford might return, but this feels like a genuine goodbye. Walking away while still on top is rare in boxing, especially in a sport where many fighters stay too long. As the news settles in, one thing is clear Terence “Bud” Crawford leaves as a true great who chose the perfect moment to step away.
