Terence Crawford

Crawford in 2023
Personal information
Nickname	Bud[2]
Born	Terence Allan Crawford (1987-09-28)September 28, 1987 (age 38) Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.
Height	5 ft 8 in (173 cm)[1]
Weight	Lightweight Light welterweight Welterweight Light middleweight Super middleweight
Website	tbudcrawford.com
Signature
Boxing career
Reach	74 in (188 cm)[1]
Stance	Southpaw[a]
Boxing record
Total fights	42
Wins	42
Win by KO	31
Medal record Men'samateur boxing Blue & Gold National Championships 2006Carson Lightweight Golden Gloves 2006Omaha Lightweight U.S. National PAL Championships 2006Oxnard Lightweight U.S. National Championships 2006Colorado Springs Lightweight 2007Colorado Springs Lightweight U.S. Pan American Box-Offs 2007Colorado Springs Lightweight Pan American Games Qualifier 2007Rio de Janeiro Lightweight

Terence Allan Crawford (born September 28, 1987) is an Americanprofessional boxer. He has held 18 differentmajor world championships in five weight classes fromlightweight tosuper middleweight, including theundisputed championships^[b] atlight welterweight,welterweight, andsuper middleweight. He is thesecond-ever male three-weight undisputed world champion.^[c] In the "four-belt era", he is the first male boxer in history to capture the undisputed championship in two^[d] and three divisions,^[3] and the first to achieve that status at both light welterweight and welterweight.^[4] He has held the undisputed super middleweight title since September 2025.

In 2014, Crawford traveled overseas to fightRicky Burns and won his first world championship, the WBO lightweight title. After two successful defenses, he moved up to light welterweight in 2015 and defeatedThomas Dulorme for the vacant WBO light welterweight title.^[5] In 2017, Crawford had a short reign as the undisputed light welterweight champion, being the first sinceKostya Tszyu in 2004, and the first in any weight class to simultaneously hold all four major world titles sinceJermain Taylor in 2005.^[6] In 2023, he defeatedErrol Spence Jr. to become the undisputed welterweight champion, the first sinceZab Judah in 2006.^[e][7] In 2024, he moved up to light middleweight and defeatedIsrail Madrimov to become aquadruple champion.^[8] In 2025, CrawforddefeatedCanelo Álvarez by unanimous decision to capture the undisputed super middleweight championship, becoming one of only six male boxers in history to winworld championships in five divisions.^[9]

Crawford is the only boxer in history to holdThe Ring magazine title in four divisions and joinedManny Pacquiao andFloyd Mayweather Jr. as the only fighters to becomefour-division lineal champions.^[10] He is also one of two boxers in history to have won world titles at both lightweight and super middleweight.^[f][11] Throughout his 17-year professional career, Crawford has never been knocked down, nor has a single judge ever scored a fight in favor of his opponent.^[12][11] His streak of eleven consecutiveknockouts in world title fights is tied for the third longest in boxing history.^[g][14][15]

Crawford was namedFighter of the Year by theBoxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) in 2014, and byESPN in 2014 and 2017. He's also received theBest Fighter/Boxer ESPY Award in 2018 and 2024.^[16][17] Consistently ranked among the top boxers of his generation,^[18] Crawford is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time.^[19] He was recognized as the world's toppound-for-pound boxer by the BWAA from October 2017 to May 2018,^[20] again in June 2022, and byThe Ring magazine from July 2023 to May 2024, and again since September 2025.^[21][22]

Crawford was born and raised inOmaha, Nebraska, as the only son born to Debbie and Terence Sr. He grew up in a dangerous area known for poverty, crime, and violence, which made it difficult for him to navigate in his youth. The Crawford family frequently faced financial challenges, often struggling to afford basic necessities.^[23]

At an early age, he was often involved in physical altercations and was kicked out of five different schools because of it.^[24] As his father was in theU.S. Navy, he was rarely home, leaving his mother to raise him by herself. She oftenbeat him with a belt and even tried paying neighborhood kids to pummel him, although none succeeded.^[25][26]

Crawford found solace in boxing at the C.W. Boxing Club inNorth Omaha. His grandfather, father, and uncle had all trained there. The gym's owner, Carl Washington, who was also Crawford's neighbor, approached Crawford when he was seven years old, recommending he join the gym.^[27] Crawford began frequenting the gym, and was eventually mentored by Midge Minor, who became afather figure to him.^[28][29] He constantly picked up Crawford after school and paid close attention to him, fearing that he may become involved in the rampant crime in the area.^[30] Introduced towrestling by a close family friend, Crawford embraced the sport early on, developing skills that later shaped his distinctive, wrestling-influenced boxing style.^[31]

In 2001, Crawford began training underBrian "Bomac" McIntyre and Esaú Diéguez, who remained his trainers.^[32]

Crawford took up boxing at the age of seven. He fought 70 officialamateur bouts, losing 12 times. As an amateur, he defeated future world championsMikey Garcia andDanny Garcia, as well asDiego Magdaleno, whom he beat three times. After winning three amateur tournaments shortly before the2008 Olympics, he became the highest-ranked lightweight in the US. However, his loss to leading contenderSadam Ali thwarted his Olympic ambitions.^[33] His amateur record was 58–12.^[34]

• 2006National PAL Championships, 132 lbs – Gold Medalist^[35]
  • Preliminaries: Defeated Miguel Ángel González (W 4)
  • Preliminaries: Defeated James Villa (RSC-2)
  • Quarterfinals: Defeated Stan Martyniouk (22–11)
  • Semifinals: Defeated Javier Garcia (7–4)
  • Finals: DefeatedDiego Magdaleno (13–8)
• 2006 Blue & Gold National Championships, 132 lbs – Gold Medalist^[35]
  • Quarterfinals: Defeated Jose Fernandez (RSC)
  • Semifinals: Defeated Paul Green (5–0)
  • Finals: DefeatedDanny Garcia (3–2)
• 2006National Golden Gloves, 132 lbs – Silver Medalist^[36]
  • Preliminaries: Defeated Angelo Ward (5–0)
  • Preliminaries: Defeated DeMarco McCrady (5–0)
  • Quarterfinals: Defeated Rashad Ganaway (5–0)
  • Semifinals: DefeatedCarlos Molina (3–2)
  • Finals: Lost to Jesus Mendez (2–3)
• 2006U.S. National Championships, 132 lbs – Bronze Medalist^[37]
  • Preliminaries: Bye
  • Preliminaries: DefeatedMikey Garcia (18–7)
  • Quarterfinals: Defeated Stan Martyniouk (17–13)
  • Semifinals: Lost toDanny Garcia (20–21)
• 2007 U.S. Pan American Box-Offs, 132 lbs – Gold Medalist^[38]
  • Semifinals: DefeatedLuis Ramos Jr. (25–15)
  • Finals: DefeatedDiego Magdaleno (24–13)
• 2007 1st Pan American Games Qualifier, 132 lbs – Bronze Medalist^[39]
  • Preliminaries: Defeated Jose Maria Virula (19–7)
  • Quarterfinals: Defeated Luis Ernesto Rueda (20–15)
  • Semifinals: Lost toYordenis Ugás (10–27)
• 2007U.S. National Championships, 132 lbs – Bronze Medalist^[40]
  • Preliminaries: Bye
  • Preliminaries: Bye
  • Quarterfinals: Defeated Miguel Ángel González (25–24)
  • Semifinals: Lost toJerry Belmontes (9–10)

Crawford made his professional debut on March 14, 2008, fighting as alightweight (130 lb (59 kg) - 135 lb (61 kg)) and knocking out Brian Cummings in the first round. He compiled a record of 19–0 with 15 wins by way ofknockout (KO) against largely unheralded opposition.

Crawford's first notable bout was againstBreidis Prescott on the undercard of the second fight betweenBrandon Ríos andMike Alvarado. Prescott was originally scheduled to faceWBA light welterweight championKhabib Allakhverdiev, who withdrew with an injured elbow. Crawford was originally supposed to meet Robert Osiobe on the same card, but accepted the offer to fill in for Allakhverdiev on three-days notice. Crawford defeated the Colombian by aunanimous decision.^[41][42] Crawford received a purse of $125,000, whilst Prescott received $50,000. This was the first time Crawford fought a ten-round fight and his first time fighting at the 140 lb. limit.^[43]

Crawford foughtAlejandro Sanabria on June 15, 2013. Held at theAmerican Airlines Center inDallas,Texas, the fight served as an eliminator for theWBOlightweight title and was also for the vacant WBO-NABO lightweight title.^[44]

After a slow start in rounds one and two, Crawford outlanded Sanabria 2–1 in power shots over the next three frames.^[45] The fight ended just after the bell rang to start the sixth round. Crawford charged forward, landing a precise left hook to Sanabria's jaw that sent him crashing to the canvas, headfirst, in a forward roll.^[46] Though Sanabria was able to return to his feet at the count of seven, he was left staggered, which caused the fight to be waved off by referee Laurence Cole, giving Crawford atechnical knockout (TKO) victory.^[47][48]

On August 21, 2013, it was announced that Crawford would fight undefeated Russian boxer and WBO #12 rankedAndrey Klimov in another elimination bout, which would see the winner challenge WBO championRicky Burns. The fight was scheduled for ten rounds and took place on the undercard ofMiguel Cotto vs.Delvin Rodriguez onHBO at theAmway Center inOrlando, Florida, on October 5. Klimov was coming off amajority decision (MD) win over fringe contenderJohn Molina Jr. in June 2013.^[49][50]

After ten rounds, all three judges scored the fight 100–90 in Crawford's favour, Klimov's first defeat as a professional. According toCompuBox stats, Crawford landed 192 of 604 punches (32%), whilst Klimov landed 57 of 290 (20%). In the post-fight interview, Crawford spoke on how he went in and got the job done, "I outboxed him. It was easy all night long. I thought I was hurting him all night long. I was never in any trouble and I thought he was in trouble." Due to Klimov's lack of action, it prompted a member of his team to call him a 'coward' after round eight in the corner.^[51][52]

Crawford traveled to Scotland five months later to take on 30 year old Ricky Burns for the WBO lightweight title on March 1, 2014. Burns' promoter,Eddie Hearn, said he was pleased to bring the fight to Scotland, and admitted it was Burns' toughest fight to date.^[53]

Both fighters were cautious in the opening round, with Burns' jab making the early impact. Crawford adjusted in the second, neutralizing Burns' jab, while the third round was a near draw. The action heated up in the fifth as Crawford began to showcase his offensive skills. Despite the tactical nature of the fight, with both boxers using feints, jabs, and lateral movement to disrupt each other, Crawford took control and set the pace. From that moment, the outcome seemed inevitable. Burns tried to stand his ground in the seventh, attempting to go toe-to-toe with Crawford, but Crawford's hard jab and aggressive approach soon took over. In the eighth, Crawford was punishing Burns with heavy shots. He continued to outwork and outland Burns in the championship rounds. By the twelfth, Crawford was pouring on the pressure, looking to finish, but Burns remained upright and saw the final bell.^[54]

Crawford won the fight, boxing well on the outside and picking his shots against Burns, becoming the first Nebraska native in 100 years to win a world title.^[4] The judges scored the fight 117–111, and 116–112 both in favour of Crawford. Burns praised Crawford after the fight, simply stating, "The better man won." Over the twelve rounds, Crawford landed 213 of 811 punches thrown (26%) but landed 41% of his power punches. Burns landed 76 of his 552 thrown (14%) and landed no more than 7 power punches in total.^{[55][56][57][58]}

Fighting for the first time as a professional in his hometown ofOmaha, Nebraska, Crawford made his first title defense against 2004 CubanOlympic gold medalist and formerIBFfeatherweight championYuriorkis Gamboa. This was only the second title fight ever held in Omaha, the first being in 1972, whenheavyweight championJoe Frazier defeated the Omaha/Council Bluffs productRon Stander by fourth-round TKO. Gamboa entered having not fought in over a year. The fight was announced on May 6 and took place at theCenturyLink Center on June 28, 2014.^[59] Crawford weighed in 134.8 pounds, slightly heavier than Gamboa at 134.4 pounds.^[60]

Gamboa won the early rounds using his speed advantage, but Crawford eventually adjusted, knocking Gamboa down once in the fifth round, again in the eighth, and finally twice in the ninth to secure a TKO victory in front of a sold-out hometown crowd of 10,943 fans.^[61] Crawford stated after the fight "I was warming up, getting used to his style in the first couple of rounds. I just wanted to test him out, I felt like I could make an adjustment with my jab, because he's always dropping his left hand. I thought I could get him with my jab in the southpaw stance." At the time of stoppage, Crawford was ahead 78–72, 78–72, 77–73 on the judges' scorecards.^[62] He landed 146 of 348 punches (42 percent) and Gamboa connected on 82 of 345 (24 percent).^[63] The show topped out at 1.286 million viewers. Both the peak and average audience figures were good for the highest-ratedHBO Boxing After Dark telecast of 2014 to date.^[64] In an interview in July 2016, Crawford stated that Gamboa was still his toughest fight to date.^[65]

Crawford made his second defense of the WBO title againstThe Ring magazine #1 contenderRay Beltrán. The winner of the bout would becomeThe Ring's lightweight champion. The fight was held in front of 11,127 at The CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Nebraska on November 29, 2014.^[66][67]

Early in the fight, both Crawford and Beltran had their moments, with Crawford controlling the action through stance switching and a steady jab, while Beltran landed his powerful right hand occasionally. In the fourth, Beltran pushed Crawford back with a hard shot, but Crawford quickly regained control. This pattern repeated in several rounds, with Crawford asserting dominance each time. In the later rounds, Crawford pressed for a stoppage, but Beltran held his ground. Ultimately, there was no doubt who the top lightweight was.^[68] Crawford retained his world title earning a twelve-round UD win. The final judges' scorecards read 120–108, and 119–109 twice in favour of Crawford. After the fight, Crawford announced his intentions to leave the lightweight division to fight as alight welterweight.^[69][70] The fight averaged 836,000 viewers on HBO and peaked at 936,000 viewers. It was considered a disappointment because the co-feature which sawEvgeny Gradovich draw withJayson Velez drew an average 865,000 viewers and peaked just over 1 million.^[71]

Crawford was named the 2014 'Fighter of the Year' byESPN and theBoxing Writers Association of America, after dethroning Burns.^[72][73][74]

On March 6, 2015, ESPN reported that Crawford would debut as a light welterweight, challenging for the vacantWBO title at theCollege Park Center inArlington, Texas, against 25 year oldThomas Dulorme on April 18. At the press conference, Crawford told Dulorme, "Come prepared because I am going to be ready. [The fans] should expect a spectacular victory. This is my second world title at a different weight, and I am really going to be up for it. I will be prepared. I am always ready and prepared for any fight."^[75]

Early in the bout, Dulorme was outworking Crawford, but it seemed to be part of Crawford's strategy. He was betting on Dulorme tiring out, and that's exactly what happened. By the fourth round, Crawford began using his jab more frequently, setting the stage for what was to come. That jab would serve as the perfect setup for the big punches later in the fight. In the sixth round, Crawford feinted with the jab and then landed a left-right combination that hurt Dulorme. The 25-year-old Puerto Rican staggered back and took a knee. He got back up but was dropped twice more in the same round.^[76] The second knockdown ended the fight, as Dulorme was unable to continue, and Crawford secured his first world title at 140 pounds. Referee Rafael Ramos stopped the fight at 1 minute, 51 seconds of the round.^[77] The fight averaged 1.004 million viewers on HBO.^[78]

Top Rank announced on August 20 that Crawford would make his first defence at the CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Nebraska, on October 24 againstMontreal based 33 year old contenderDierry Jean. Jean's only previous loss as a professional had come in 2014 against light welterweight titlistLamont Peterson, in Peterson's hometown ofWashington, D.C., after which Jean dropped down to lightweight where he won four fights in a row.^[79]

The first round was a typically cagey, measured start by Crawford up until the final seconds, when he switched to a southpaw stance and stuck Jean with a hard left and a right hook that sent him to the canvas. Dominating the middle rounds, Crawford pounced on Jean whenever he saw his guard drop even a little. He landed a couple of powerful hooks on Jean at the end of the ninth, sending him to the canvas for a second knockdown. Wobbly getting to his feet, it was clear he had nothing left in the 10th, forcing referee Tony Weeks to step in and stop the bout in front of an audience of 11,020.^[80] Crawford landed 169 total punches out of 533 thrown, and 40% of his power shots. Over the last three rounds, Crawford out-landed Jean 59 to 9.

After the fight, Crawford stated that he was ready for former eight-division world championManny Pacquiao, "I'm ready.Bob, make it happen. I'm ready. I'm gonna let my handlers, Cameron Dunkin and Brian McIntyre, talk to Bob Arum and Team Pacquiao, and let's see if we can make it happen."^[81][82][83] Crawford was ahead on all three judges' scorecards at the time of stoppage (89–80, 90–79 twice). The fight was broadcast on HBO, drawing an average of 1.071 million viewers and peaked at 1.2 million.^[78]

His next fight took place before a sell-out crowd of 5,092 at theTheater of Madison Square Garden on February 27, 2016, againstHank Lundy. Panned as a second-rate fight for the undefeated Crawford, the bout picked up considerable steam in the weeks leading up to the telecast as Lundy boldly predicted a knockout win.^[84]

Crawford quickly took control of the first four rounds of the fight. In the fifth round, Crawford landed a one-two combination capped by a powerful left that hurt Lundy. Wobbled, Lundy was quickly swarmed by Crawford, and another hard left sent him to the ropes and then the canvas. As Lundy struggled to rise, Crawford taunted him, keeping up the pressure. Lundy tried to fight back, but Crawford's assault was relentless, and referee Steve Willis stepped in to stop the bout, giving Crawford his second straight title defense.^[85] Crawford connected with 89 of 247 punches (36%), compared to 47 of 411 for Lundy (22%).

Crawford spoke out about his feud with Lundy on social media, "He and I had gone back and forth on Twitter for like a year. I just wanted to shut him up for good." Crawford earned $1.21 million and Lundy earned a $150,000 purse. Although there was a lot of tension pre-fight, Lundy approached Crawford after the fight and showed respect.^[86][87][88] The fight averaged 982,000 viewers on HBO and peaked just over 1 million viewers.^[89]

On May 3, 2016, it was finally confirmed that Crawford andWBC championViktor Postol had officially signed a contract for the highly anticipated light welterweight unification fight on July 23 at theMGM Grand inLas Vegas. Both fighters entered the ring with a matched record of 28 wins, no losses. Both men also entered theMGM Grand Garden Arena for the first time in their respective careers.^[90] Crawford won by UD and unified two light welterweight world titles before a crowd of 7,027. Crawford also claimed the vacantRing magazine title.^[91] Crawford scored two flash knockdowns in the fifth round, with all three scorecards reading 118–107 twice, and 117–108. Postol was penalised forrabbit punching in the eleventh round when he hit Crawford with a right hand behind the head for which Postol was penalized one point, adding to Crawford's advantage. With the victory, Crawford staked his indisputable claim to division supremacy and set himself up for bigger fights, possibly against a returning Manny Pacquiao. Over twelve rounds, Crawford landed 141 of his 388 punches thrown (36%), and Postol landed 83 of 244 thrown (34%).^[92][93]

In the post-fight interview, Postol praised Crawford, saying "I thought it was a good fight between two technicians, but he was quicker than me. He is one of the best fighters in the world. I just didn't have the answers for him." Crawford also praised his trainer Brian McIntyre, "Freddie Roach and Postol said that Freddie would outcoach my coach, but you tell 'em who got outcoached tonight." McIntyre revealed the plan was to keep Postol moving, which would have eliminated his jab and right hand. Crawford's purse for the fight was $1.3 million. Postol earned $675,000 for his part.^[94] Some sources^[95] stated the fight generated 60,000 PPV buys on HBO. A replay was shown later in the week and drew 378,000, considered a weak number.^[96]

Crawford was not due to fight next until 2017, however due to theGolovkin-Jacobs fight being postponed to early 2017, this freed up the December 10 date for HBO. Arum confirmed Crawford would take the date and look at potential opponents, including the thenIBF championEduard Troyanovsky andAntonio Orozco.^[97] Arum announced a deal was in place for a fight between Crawford and 33 year old contenderJohn Molina Jr. on December 10, 2016, at Crawford's hometown at CenturyLink Center in Omaha, Nebraska. Molina had previously defeated Russian contenderRuslan Provodnikov by UD in a twelve-round June 2016 fight, in which he also claimed the vacant WBO International light welterweight title.^[98][99] Molina weighed 144lb at the official weigh-in which meant he lost the right to fight for Crawford's world titles. Had Crawford lost the fight, he would have not lost his belts. For the fight to go ahead, Molina gave $400,000 of his purse to Crawford, adding to his already agreed purse of $1.5m.^[100]

Crawford held onto his titles, stopping Molina in the eighth round in front of a large home crowd in Omaha. Crawford moved around the ring for most of the fight, jabbing, holding and pot-shotting Molina. Referee Mark Nelson halted the fight in the eight round after Molina received three consecutive hits to the head. In the post-fight interview, Crawford felt he should be the 2016 'Fighter of the Year' for his wins over Molina, Lundy and Postol, "I feel like I got it. I just have to wait until the results come in." Crawford also reiterated his desire to unify the division before a possible move up towelterweight. Crawford landed 184 punches from 419 thrown, Molina landed 41 of 287 thrown, a 14% connect rate.^[101][102] The fight drew an average 806,000 viewers and peaked at 871,000 viewers on HBO.^[103]

Bob Arum spoke to ESPN in early February 2017 about Crawford's next defence and possible opponents. He said that HBO had set a May 20 date for the fight and the venue would most likely be in Crawford's hometown, Omaha. Mexican boxer Antonio Orozco, one of Crawford'smandatory challengers andOlympic gold medalistFelix Diaz, who had been calling out Crawford, were the names mentioned. He went on to explain how Orozco's promoters seemed to have little interest in the fight.Lou DiBella, promoter of Diaz, was eager to make a fight happen.^[104] Arum spoke toThe Ring on March 1 saying that Crawford's opponent had been narrowed down to Diaz orAdrian Granados.Amir Imam, ranked number 1 by theWBC was also in the mix, but Arum said that he found it difficult to make a deal with his promoter,Don King.^[105] Terms were finally agreed on March 22 for Crawford vs. Diaz at thePrudential Center inNewark, New Jersey, on May 20. Contracts were to be signed shortly after.^[106][107] A week after the fight was announced, the location was changed. The new venue was confirmed to beMadison Square Garden inNew York City.^[108]

In front of a crowd of 8,026, Crawford retained his world titles after Diaz's trainer,Joel Díaz stopped the fight after round ten. Towards the end, Diaz did close to nothing, leaning against the ropes. This was mostly due to his vision, as his right eye was nearly closed and his left eye was also badly swollen. Crawford used his jab for most of the fight, and used it to control the pace and help him move around the ring in hissouthpaw stance. Joel Díaz said in the post-fight interview that he had pulled his fighter out because he was taking too much punishment. Also in the post-fight interview, Crawford said, "It's not up to me. But everybody wants to know who's the next guy that Terence Crawford wants to fight. I'll fight anybody. It doesn't matter who it is." He then called outKeith Thurman. Promoter Bob Arum mentioned Crawford would likely fight again in the summer, againstJulius Indongo, where the winner would be crowned theundisputed light welterweight champion.^[109][110]

According to CompuBox punch stats, Crawford landed 193 of his 520 punches thrown (37.1%). In that figure, he landed 59.1% of his power punches (139 of 235 thrown). Diaz landed 69 of 346 (19.9%). At the time of stoppage, judges Glenn Feldman and Steve Weisfeld scored the bout 100–90 and judge Julie Lederman scores it 99–91, all in favour of Crawford.^[111] According toNielsen, the fight averaged 961,000 viewers onHBO's World Championship Boxing and peaked at 1.036m viewers. It was the most viewed fight on HBO so far that year.^[112]

On July 1, 2017, Top Rank announced that a light welterweight unification fight between Crawford, andWBA regular andIBF champion Julius Indongo was agreed upon to take place on August 19 at thePinnacle Bank Arena inLincoln, Nebraska, live on ESPN in the U.S. andSky Sports in the U.K.^{[113][114][115]} WBA sanctioned the fight for WBA super title. With the unification of every major world title in boxing (WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO) will determine the light welterweight division's first undisputed champion sinceKostya Tszyu in 2004, and the first time all the aforementioned titles have been at stake in a single fight sinceBernard Hopkins vs. Jermain Taylor in 2005. Both fighters paid over $100,000 U.S. dollars in sanctioning fees.^[116] Crawford entered the fight as a heavy favourite to win.^[117]

In front of a home crowd of 12,121, Crawford became the undisputed champion at light welterweight after knocking out Indongo in round three. The final punch was a left hook to the right side of the body, which immediately dropped Indongo. Referee Jack Reiss counted to 10 and promptly called an end after 1 minute and 38 seconds. Indongo also touched the canvas during round one, but the referee ruled it a slip. Additionally, Indongo was knocked down and received a count after a left from Crawford during round two.^[118]

According to CompuBox stats, Crawford landed 26 of his 75 punches thrown (35%), while Indongo landed 13 of 74 thrown (18%). Both boxers earned an undisclosed 7-figure purse.^[119] Following the fight, Indongo stated "When he hit me like that, my mind was gone" about Crawford's body shot.^[120] Crawford stated that he had yet to make a decision on the next step in his career but there was speculation about him moving up to the welterweight division^[121] or defending his light welterweight titles against Mikey Garcia.^[122] The card averaged 965,000 viewers on ESPN.^[123]

Mere days after the fight, the IBF ordered a fight between Crawford and their mandatory challenger,Sergey Lipinets.^[124] Lipinets was named Indongo's mandatory challenger in December 2016, but Indongo was given an exemption to allow the unification fight with Crawford to happen. Lipinets stated that the IBF title was "stolen from him".^[125] As Crawford didn't plan to return to the ring before the IBF's deadline, he vacated the IBF title just 11 days after defeating Indongo.^[126] The IBF ordered Lipinets to face Akihiro Kondo for their vacant title.^[127]

On August 31, the WBA Championships Committee revealed that they had elevated Crawford to'Super' champion. Article C18 of the WBA's rules stated that as Crawford holds all major titles at light welterweight, he could be elevated and deemed a 'Super' champion. The WBA, however, claimed to hold on to their policy of having only one champion per weight category and insisted aninterim orregular title would not be created.^[128]

On October 26, 2017, Crawford officially vacated his WBO title to move up to the welterweight division. The WBO announced Crawford as the mandatory challenger to their titleholderJeff Horn. With Horn scheduled to make a voluntary defence in December 2017 against British boxerGary Corcoran, Crawford would not fight again in 2017. The winner of Horn vs. Cocoran was then ordered to schedule a fight against Crawford within 90 days.^[129][130] Arum stated he had dates in March and April 2018 on hold.^[131]

Horn had won theWBOwelterweight title in a very controversial decision win againstManny Pacquiao, after he had successfully made the first defence of his against Corcoran, this set up the fight between Crawford and Horn.^[132] Following his win, Horn was challenged to a big money fight atlight middleweight by 42 year oldAnthony Mundine, before eventually defending his WBO title against Crawford.^[133] Horn admitted his interest in the fight where he would be seeing a purse of around $2 million with his trainer, Glenn Rushton, also very much interested in the Mundine fight.^[134] On January 10, 2018, it was confirmed that all terms had been agreed upon for Horn to defend the WBO title in a mandatory defence against Crawford, after renegotiating the purses. The fight was being slated for April 21, 2018, at theT-Mobile Arena inParadise, Nevada.^[135] On January 17, Arum stated the fight would likely take place at Madison Square Garden as there was no availability in Las Vegas for the dates required.^[136][137] In February, Arum claimed that due to other boxing events taking place around New York in April, the Crawford vs. Horn bout would take place in Las Vegas instead.^[138]

On March 14, it was reported that the fight would be postponed after Crawford suffered a hand injury whilst sparring.^[139][140] The fight was rescheduled to take place on June 9 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Paradise, Nevada.^[141] It was reported on May 24 that Horn had been involved in a car accident, involving three cars inBrisbane, however Horn himself confirmed that he was not hurt and did not suffer any injuries. Speaking to a newspaper, he said, "No one was badly hurt but it stunned me. Fortunately, I was in the car alone and my wife Jo and baby Isabelle were home. The accident was a shock but nothing is going to derail me from beating Terence Crawford. I'm very fit. I feel I'm going to peak right at fight time."^[142]

Crawford became athree-weight world champion in front of 8,112 fans in attendance after he eventually stopped Horn via TKO in round nine. At the time of the stoppage, all three judges had Crawford winning all the previous rounds. Horn lacked defense but kept coming forward, trying to look for an opening. Horn made the opening two rounds the most competitive with his aggressive style but Crawford adapted and remained the busier fighter throughout, landing the most telling shots of the bout. Horn was eventually dropped for the first time in round nine with an overhand left. After he got back up, Crawford landed a series of hard shots that caused referee Robert Byrd to stop the fight. The official time of the stoppage was 2 minutes and 33 seconds.^[143] After the bout, Crawford spoke about his welterweight debut, "Like I told you all before, I'm strong. I was way stronger than him. You all kept telling me how strong he was, so I had to go and show you. I just had to get in the ring and prove it. You saw what I did in there. My power carried up, my physicality. Now I want all the champions at welterweight." Promoter Bob Arum highly praised Crawford and compared him toSugar Ray Leonard. According to CompuBox stats, Crawford landed 155 of 367 of punches thrown (42%). This included 47 power shots landed over the final two rounds. Horn, on the other hand, landed just 58 of 257 punches thrown (23%).^[144][145] Crawford earned a career-high $3 million purse and Horn also earned a career-high purse of $1.75 million.^[146]

Crawford's first defense of the WBO title was slated to take place on October 13, 2018. Early reports stated his likely opponent would be formerWBA interim light welterweight championJosé Benavidez (27–0, 18 KOs).^[147] On September 6, despite having two years left of his contract, Crawford signed a new multi-year deal with Top Rank.^[148] On signing the extension, Crawford said, "I am the best fighter in the world, hands down. ESPN is the biggest brand in sports and Top Rank is the biggest promotional company in boxing. This was a no-brainer for me and my team. All of the super fights that the world wants to see will happen. Like I've said before, I want all of the champions in the welterweight division." The fight against Benavidez was also announced by Top Rank to take place at theCHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska.^[149][150]

In front of 13,323 in attendance, the largest crowd he had drawn to date, Crawford came on strong in the final round to score a twelfth-round KO win to retain his WBO welterweight title. The fight was halted at 2 minutes and 42 seconds. Crawford used an in-and-out style of fighting to land his shots and then got away before Benavidez could hit him. Towards the end of round twelve, Crawford knocked down Benavidez, who fought with an injured knee, with a left-right combination, the final punch being a right uppercut. After Benavidez got back to his feet, Crawford landed a flurry of punches until referee Celestino Ruiz stepped in. Crawford landed head and body combinations earlier in the fight which forced Benavidez to take a step back.^[151] Crawford credited the body shots, saying, "That takes something out of you every time. That's what slowed him down. You could tell every time he was shaking his head. I knew it would take its toll in the later rounds." At the time of stoppage, Crawford was ahead 110–99, 108–101 and 107–102 on all three judges' scorecards. According to CompuBox, Crawford landed 186 of 579 punches thrown (32%) and Benavidez landed 92 of his 501 thrown (18%). Benavidez landed 8 punches per round. CompuBox Historical showed that Crawford's previous 10 opponents landed only 7 per round.^[152] Crawford earned $3.625 million, his career-highest, compared to Benavidez's $500,000 purse.^[153] The near two-hour telecast averaged 2,245,000 viewers on ESPN.^[154]

On November 16,Egidijus Kavaliauskas knocked out Roberto Arriaza in the third round of their bout.^[155] After the fight, Arum hinted Kavaliauskas would likely challenge Crawford for the WBO welterweight title in early 2019. Kavaliauskas stated he wanted to fight the best in the division and called out Crawford.^[156] A week later, it was reported 37 year old, former world championLuis Collazo (38–7, 20 KOs) was in line to challenge Crawford, in what would be Crawford's first of three bouts in 2019.^[157] The fight would main event a Top Rank card on ESPN on March 23, 2019, at Madison Square Garden in New York.^[158] Prior to pursuing the fight with Collazo, Carl Moretti told RingTv they offered Danny García a guaranteed $3 million purse to fight Crawford on the same date on ESPN PPV, which would have included a share of the revenue generated. The offer was made to Angel García, who told Moretti he would discuss the offer with Danny, but ultimately never replied to Top Rank's offer. According to Moretti, the offer was made two weeks before García's fight withAdrián Granados was announced.^[159]

Although Collazo had agreed the terms to fight, Crawford was yet to sign the agreement. On December 3, it was reported that Top Rank had offeredAmir Khan a guaranteed $5 million purse, plus a percentage of PPV revenue, to fight Crawford on March 23, 2019. Khan explained how he was considering the fight as it would be a good pay day and for the WBO welterweight title.^[160] He stated the fight withKell Brook, who he was in negotiations with over a big domestic showdown, could still take place at a later date.^[161][162] On January 4, 2019, with no opponent announced, Crawford's scheduled return to the ring was pushed back to April 20, 2019.^[163] A few hours after, it was reported that Khan accepted Top Rank's offer to fight Crawford on April 20.^[164][165] A press conference was set for January 15, in London and the fight was made official to take place onESPN PPV on April 20, 2019.^[166] Khan admitted it was a hard decision to make when choosing to fight Crawford over long-time rival Brook, as a bout with Crawford would see his legacy enhanced further. Khan also believed winning another world title against a consensuspound for pound boxer would be a bigger achievement than defeating Brook.^[167] Khan also revealed he would return to veteran trainerVirgil Hunter for the Crawford bout. Hunter was unable to train Khan for his previous two bouts due a health scare.^[168] After the pressers concluded, New York's Madison Square Garden was chosen as the venue for the bout.^[169]BT Sport in the U.K. picked up the event, announcing it would take place on their PPV platform.^[170]

The fight took place on April 20, in front of over 14,000 in attendance and ended in controversial circumstances when Crawford won by technical knockout in the sixth round due to an accidental low blow.^[171][172] Crawford knocked Khan down in the first round with a powerful overhand right towards the end of the round. Crawford continued to control the bout, utilizing his skills, speed, and power. He landed significant punches while Khan struggled to keep pace. The fight took a controversial turn in the sixth round, when Crawford landed an accidental low blow. Khan was given time to recover but notably chose not to continue, leading to the referee stopping the fight and awarding Crawford a TKO victory. The incident prompted debate regarding whether Khan was truly unable to continue or if he took the opportunity to exit a losing fight. At the time of the stoppage, Crawford lead on all three scorecards, 50–44, and 49–45 twice.^[173] According to CompuBox, Crawford landed 88 of 211 punches thrown (41.7%) and Khan landed 44 of 182 thrown (24.2%).^[174][175] Khan was guaranteed a base purse of $5 million (£3.85m) with Crawford set to take home a minimum of $5.5m (£4.23m).^[176]

After the fight, Khan expressed his desire to continue but stated that he could not recover from the pain caused by the low blow. He rejected claims that he had quit, emphasizing his intention to fight until the end. His trainer, Virgil Hunter, supported Khan's decision, insisting that the fighter was indeed incapacitated and prioritizing his safety over continuing. Crawford was disappointed with the fight ending but remained firm about his position as the champion. He called out other fighters, expressing his interest in unification bouts.^[177][178]

Having called for the opportunity since November 2016,Egidijus Kavaliauskas eventually faced Crawford on December 14, 2019, at Madison Square Garden. Crawford set the tone from the opening bell with a sharp jab, establishing control over the pace and distance. The second round mirrored the first, a tightly contested technical battle between the two. In the third, Kavaliauskas seemed to stun Crawford as he came forward. Crawford went down, but the referee ruled it a slip. Staying composed, Crawford landed a combination when they exchanged punches. In the fourth, Crawford resumed his jab, throwing fluid combinations and pushing back his challenger, a strategy he maintained into the fifth.^[179]

Kavaliauskas mounted a challenge in the sixth, keeping the fight close, though Crawford retained the upper hand. By the seventh, they were exchanging heavy shots at close range, and Crawford dropped Kavaliauskas with a hook. However, the bell rang before he could finish. Crawford took control again in the eighth, using his superior boxing and precision punches. In the ninth, a barrage of strikes put Kavaliauskas down again, and a third knockdown soon followed, leading to the stoppage and Crawford's victory.^[180] At the time of the stoppage, Crawford had landed 128 total punches, while Kavaliauskas connected with 118—marking the most punches any opponent had landed against Crawford up to that point. Regarding the unscored knockdown, Crawford later admitted that it was in-fact a knockdown to a small group of reporters, saying "You scored a knockdown and got knocked out."^[181] According toThe Athletic, Crawford took home a purse of $4 million for the bout.^[182]

On August 25, 2020,Bob Arum revealed that discussions were ongoing for Crawford to face theKell Brook, with November 14, 2020, being the targeted date. Crawford's camp first attempted to arrange a fight withJosesito López, who however opted to faceMaurice Hooker.^[183] The fight was officially announced on October 6, 2020,^[184] and was held at the MGM Grand Conference Center inParadise, Nevada.^[185] Crawford entered the fight as a significant favorite, with most odds-makers having him as a -1439 favorite.^[186][187]

Both boxers started slowly in the first round, with only a few jabs exchanged. The second round continued at a measured pace, with both landing punches in a tactical, close contest. Crawford found more success in the third, using his southpaw stance effectively. In the fourth, a powerful right hand dropped Brook as he stumbled backward, using the ropes to stay upright.^[188] Once the action resumed, Crawford relentlessly attacked, stopping the former IBF titlist at the 1:14 minute mark.^[189] He out-landed Brook 36 to 26 in total punches landed, and 20 to 12 in power punches landed.^[190] Brook was leading on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage, with two judges having the fight 29–28 in his favor, while the third judge awarded the same scorecard to Crawford.^[191]

The fight, which was broadcast byESPN, drew an average audience of 2,029,000 viewers and attracted a peak audience of 2,078,000.^[192] Crawford earned $3 million for the bout, a 60% split of the purse.^[193]

On July 22, 2021, the WBO ordered Crawford to defend his welterweight title against the #2 ranked WBO welterweight contenderShawn Porter.^[194] As the two sides were unable to negotiate the terms of the fight, the WBO set a purse bid for September 2, 2021,^[195] which was later postponed until September 14.^[196] Crawford and Porter would adhere to a 60–40 purse split, rather than the usual 80–20 split for mandated matches, taking into account the earnings from their three previous fights.^[197] On September 14, it was announced that a deal had been agreed to stage the fight on November 20 atMandalay Bay in Las Vegas, airing onESPN+PPV. Porter came into the fight planning to retire and did so after the fight.^[198]

In a close competitive fight, both men were cut from accidental head clashes. In the tenth round, Crawford caught Porter coming in with a well-timed left uppercut, sending the latter to the canvas. Crawford scored another knockdown shortly after. Porter got up and wanted to continue but his corner threw in the towel, handing Crawford a tenth-round technical knockout victory.^[199] Crawford out-landed Porter in punches with 98 strikes to 79, although Porter had landed more power punches (67 to Crawford's 65).^[200] Crawford was leading on the judges' scorecards at the time of the stoppage, with scores of 86–85, 86–85 and 87–84.^[201] According toESPN reports, Crawford earned upward of $6 million for the bout, a 60% split of the total fight purse.^[202] During his post-fight interview, Crawford announced his split with promoterBob Arum and departure fromTop Rank, opting instead to test free agency.^[203]

On October 21, 2022, Crawford was announced to make the sixth defense of his WBO welterweight championship againstDavid Avanesyan on December 10, 2022, at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, that will headline a BLK Prime Boxing PPV.^[204]

In front of 14,630 fans, Crawford scored a sixth-round knockout against Avanesyan.^[205] The fight commenced with Crawford adopting a conventional stance but quickly transitioned to a southpaw position, which he maintained throughout the match. Avanesyan initiated the fight with an aggressive approach, landing several effective shots. However, Crawford gradually asserted control by implementing a focused body attack and utilizing movement to avoid incoming punches. The bout showcased competitive exchanges, particularly notable in rounds four and five, during which both fighters delivered significant strikes. In the sixth round, Crawford's combination of left uppercuts and body shots proved too much for Avanesyan, resulting in a knockout. The referee concluded the fight without administering a count. The loss marked the end of Avanesyan's six-fight knockout streak and represented his first challenge for a world title.^[206][207]

Crawford extended his streak to 10 consecutive knockouts and averaged an impressive 104.9 punches per round, significantly outpacing Avanesyan's 48.1. His 92 jab attempts in round two tied the all-time CompuBox record for welterweight, matchingAntonio Margarito's round five performance againstJoshua Clottey in December 2006.^[208] After the fight, Crawford stated it was a one-fight deal and he is still a free agent.^[209]

Crawford and theWBA,IBF andWBC welterweight championErrol Spence Jr. came to an agreement on "all material terms" for a title unification, which was expected to take place on November 19. The agreement included a bilateral rematch clause, with the winner of the bout earning the majority of the revenue in the rematch.^[210] Two months later, it was revealed by both camps that negotiations had fallen through and they would be pursuing different fights.^[211] Potential dates were given of the fight between both men as June 17 and July 22 but both have been proven false.^[212][213]Following this, on February 27, 2023, Crawford was ordered by theWBO to make a mandatory title defense against the once-defeated Alexis Rocha.^[214]Finally on May 25, 2023, it was confirmed that Crawford would fight Errol Spence Jr. for the undisputed welterweight titles on July 29, 2023, at theT-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Spence had fought only 2 times in 4 years and was coming into the fight after 2 years of inactivity. He had also suffered 2 near death car accidents.^[215]

After a slow start in the first round, Crawford quickly took control of the fight. In the second, he dropped Spence with a counter jab followed by a straight left hand. "That was more of a flash knockdown," Crawford said of the second-round knockdown after the fight. "I caught him with the left. He didn't think I was coming back with the right." Spence managed to beat the count and kept trying to mount an offense, but Crawford's speed, precision, and power overwhelmed him throughout the fight. Crawford's jab was a standout weapon, not just a setup, but a dominant force that stopped Spence's momentum every time he tried to push forward.^[216]

As the rounds progressed, Spence struggled to get anything going. Crawford's jab and crisp straight left hands kept him on the defensive, leaving Spence with little chance to land an effective shot. Despite hitting the canvas twice in the seventh, Spence tried to rally, but Crawford's relentless attack left him reeling. By the ninth round, Crawford had completely broken Spence down, leaving the referee no other option than to stop the fight at 2:32 of the frame.^[217] By that point, he had out-landed Spence 185 to 96 in total punches and 98 to 63 in power punches.^[218]

In front of a sold-out crowd of 19,990, Crawford became the first undisputed welterweight champion since 2006 and the first male boxer in the four-belt era to claim undisputed championship status in two weight divisions.^[7] He also became the first boxer sinceBarney Ross in 1934 to capturelineal titles at lightweight, light welterweight, and welterweight.^[219] Crawford was up 79–70 on all three scorecards at the time of the stoppage.^[220] The PPV did around 700k buys, generating over $59 million in revenue.^[221]

After the fight, the IBF ordered Crawford to face its interim champion,Jaron Ennis. Because Spence exercised his rematch clause with Crawford, the IBF stripped Crawford of the title and made Ennis the full champion on November 9, 2023.^[222]

On April 20, 2024, it was reported that Crawford would move up a weight class to challengeIsrail Madrimov for his WBA super welterweight title in Los Angeles on August 3, 2024.^[223][224] The WBC designated Crawford its welterweight champion in recess. Prior to the bout, Madrimov was a +600 underdog.

From the early rounds, it was clear that Madrimov would be a tough challenge for Crawford. With fast hands, solid footwork, and clever feints, Madrimov kept Crawford from settling into his usual rhythm, preventing him from letting his hands go as he has against other top fighters. Crawford maintained a southpaw stance throughout the fight, sticking to his jab and using it to set up straight lefts and powerful uppercuts. However, Madrimov capitalized on Crawford's vulnerability to straight right hands, making things difficult for the champion. The momentum swung back and forth throughout the fight, with one fighter gaining control for a few rounds before the other took over with his own strategy.^[225]

Ultimately, Crawford's strong push in the championships rounds won him the bout by unanimous decision, with scores of 116–112, 115-113 and 115–113, making him a 4 division world champion. This was the first fight since 2016 where Crawford had been taken the full 12 rounds.^[226] Madrimov believed he had done enough to secure the victory. According to CompuBox stats Crawford landed 95 of his 433 punches thrown, with 55 power punches landed and Madrimov landed 84 of his 275 punches thrown, with 65 of them being power shots.^[227]

On August 28, 2024, it was reported that WBO ordered the junior middleweight title fight between Crawford, who at that time held WBA and interim WBO titles, andSebastian Fundora, who held WBC and WBO titles.^{[228][229][230]}

In February 2025, it was reported that an agreement was in place for Crawford to challengeSaul 'Canelo' Álvarez (62–2–2, 39 KOs) for his undisputed super middleweight titles in a mega-fight in September 2025. Both boxers had met withTurki Alalshikh separately and agreed to terms. The fight would headline aRiyadh Season card, likely scheduled for a venue in Las Vegas. Early rumors reportedAllegiant Stadium as the frontrunner to host the event. Álvarez had been ignoring call outs from Crawford and Alalshikh since 2024 for a fight.^[231][232] A few days later,The Ring magazine reported the fight was cancelled.^[233] Álvarez began negotiations to fightJake Paul, and on February 7, the plans fell through when it was announced that Álvarez signed a four-fight deal with Riyadh Season, which meant the Crawford fight was back on.^[234]

Immediately after defeatingWilliam Scull on May 3, Álvarez was joined in the ring by Crawford as the fight was formally announced.^[235] On June 7, followingUFC 316, a reporter questioned Dana White about the card. White replied that he would be promoting the fight. Alalshikh then posted onX to back what White had said. With TKO back on board, Netflix was likely to broadcast the event.^[236] On June 10, the fight was officially announced, along with a three-city press tour scheduled for Riyadh, New York and Las Vegas. The fight was to take place on September 13, streaming live onNetflix.^{[237][238][239][240]} On June 17,Allegiant Stadium was officially confirmed as the host venue. It was reported that a deal was done to reschedule acollege football game, which was supposed to take place that day.^[241]

In August, the WBA announced that Crawford would forfeit the light middleweight title at the start of the fight, withAbass Baraou being elevated to the position of full WBA champion, thereby maintaining the title's active status in that division.^[242] Crawford responded to rumors concerning a shoulder injury during an event in Las Vegas, expressing skepticism about the speculation. He assured reporters that he was not injured and criticized the assertions regarding his fitness and speed. Crawford affirmed that he was at his natural weight and rejected claims that his physique would impact his performance.^[243] At the official weigh-ins, both fighters came in at 167.5 pounds, the highest weight of Crawford's career.^[244]

Crawford, fighting out of thesouthpaw stance, started cautiously before taking control in the sixth round with a cleanhook that shifted the momentum.^{[245][246][247]} He outboxed Álvarez through the middle rounds, mixing sharpjabs andcounters, while surviving a cut from a head clash in the ninth.^[248] Álvarez rallied briefly in the tenth, but Crawford finished stronger in the championship rounds to earn aunanimous decision and becomeundisputed super middleweight champion by scores of 116–112, 115–113, and 115–113.^[249][250]

70,482 people attended the event, shattering the previous record for Las Vegas boxing attendance when 29,214 fans attended the1982 fight betweenLarry Holmes andGerry Cooney,^[251] and ranking as the second-largest indoor boxing crowd in U.S. history.^[252] It was the third largestgate in boxing history, pulling in $47,231,887.^[253] The fight was watched by 41,400,000 people, making it the most watched championship boxing match of the 21st century.^[254]

Crawford is considered one of the most complete boxers of his generation.^{[255][256][257]} His ability to fluidly switch betweenorthodox andsouthpaw stances keeps opponents off balance and creates openings for his offense;^[258] with each switch changing not just his lead foot, but the angle of his attack, making it hard for opponents to predict his movements. This dynamic switch-hitting allows him to control the fight's pace, disrupt defensive strategies, and land powerful, unexpected punches, often frustrating his opponents and forcing them to take reckless risks, which he expertly counters.^[259] Crawford while being naturally right-handed has power in both hands; from both stances and has trained his left hand to also deliver knockout punching power.^[260][261]

An expert defensive boxer, Crawford combines slips, weaves,shoulder rolls, and agile footwork to evade opponents and set up devastating counters.^[262] His head movement is key, often slipping punches and pivoting with precision, much likePernell Whitaker.^[263] Crawford also uses thePhilly Shell defense from a southpaw stance,^[260] deflecting punches off his lead shoulder orforearm while maintaining distance. His lowered lead hand allows for a flicker jab, setting up his powerful rear hand, similar toThomas Hearns.^[264]

Crawford's greatest strength is believed to be his ability to adapt mid-fight.^[265] Being a slow starter by design,^[266] using the early rounds to study timing, tendencies, and weaknesses;^[267] once he finds a gap, he shifts gears quickly, often flipping the momentum with a single exchange.^[268] Crawford is recognized for his ability to secure stoppage victories, often relying on timing and counterpunching rather than constant aggression. Analysts have noted his ability to adjust strategies during bouts and maintain composure under pressure, which has contributed to his success across multiple weight classes.^[269] He recorded 11 consecutive finishes in world title fights, a streak that reinforced his reputation as one of the leading boxers of his era.^{[270][271][11]}

Terence Crawford's training approach is unique in its collaborative and holistic nature. His coaches—Brian McIntyre, Esaú Diéguez, and Jamie Belt—work in sync to develop his skills. Each trainer brings a different perspective, with McIntyre focusing on tactics and strategy, Diéguez offering a deep understanding of boxing technique, and Belt specializing in strength and conditioning.^[272]

Crawford's training involves a mix of traditional methods and modern techniques. A key part of his preparation is adaptability—he works on bothorthodox andsouthpaw stances, practicing various scenarios, such as cutting the ring off or adjusting to opponents who jump in or stand still.Sparring is prioritized every other day, but it is balanced with recovery-focused activities likeswimming. Swimming serves as a low-impact cardio workout that helps with muscle recovery, lung capacity, and overall endurance.^[273]

Belt's focus is on injury prevention and building Crawford's athleticism, transitioning him from traditional, long-distance running to interval-based training andweightlifting. This shift in training methods, including core strengthening and muscle stabilization, enhances Crawford's overall performance. The training plan also emphasizes gradually increasing the intensity of workouts, ensuring that Crawford's cardio is optimal for the late rounds of fights.^[274]

As the training camp progresses, the team relocates toColorado to focus on higher-altitude training, which helps with stamina and conditioning.^[275]

When it comes to his diet during training camps, Crawford trusts his coach and nutritionist to take care of the details. His typical meal plan includes baked chicken, fish, brown rice, pasta, and vegetables.^[276]

Crawford has two sisters, Latisha and Shawntay.^[277] He has been in a relationship with Alindra Person since the early 2000s. They first met in their hometown ofOmaha, Nebraska, and have six children together.^[278] Crawford also has another child with another woman.^[279]

Crawford reportedly boasts a large real estate portfolio consisting of over 100 properties inMissouri,Colorado, andNebraska.^[280]

During fight camps, he moves to his second house inColorado Springs and trains at Triple Threat Gym.^[281][282]

Just three days after defeatingRicky Burns to capture his first world title, Crawford was honored with theKey to the City of Omaha, Nebraska. TheOmaha City Council also declared March 4, 2014, as Terence "Bud" Crawford Day.^[283]

In August 2018, Larimore Avenue, where he grew up, was renamed Terence "Bud" Crawford Street.^[284] Crawford still resides in Omaha along with his family, where he is a celebrated figure.

In May 2025, theUniversity of Nebraska Omaha invited Crawford to be the keynote speaker at the commencement ceremony for graduating students.^[285] After delivering his speech, he was honored with the inaugural Spirit of the Maverick award.^[286]

In May 2017, Crawford signed a deal with sports equipment brandEverlast.^[287] After being sponsored byPrime Hydration for his July fight withErrol Spence Jr., Crawford formalized a partnership deal with the company in November 2023.^[288]

In 2024, Crawford signed a 10-year licensing agreement for the boxing video gameUndisputed, a deal that includes equity ownership and a share of the franchise.^[289]

In 2025, Crawford entered into a partnership with Crown Coins Casino to serve as its brand ambassador.^[290] As part of the collaboration, Crown Coins sponsored Crawford and launched themed slot games featuring his likeness.^[291][292]

Crawford was a featured cover athlete onThe Ring magazine's September 2015, January 2019, May 2019, and November 2025 issues.^{[293][294][295]}

Crawford was featured in theCreed film franchise, appearing inCreed III in 2023.^[296] In October 2025,Undisputed released a "Championship Edition" of its video game featuring Crawford on the cover.^[297] In November 2025, Crawford was featured byHaute Living, modeling some expensiveUlysse Nardin watches.^[298]

After winning theundisputed welterweight championship in 2023, the city of Omaha held a parade in Crawford's honor, drawing thousands of supporters.^[299] The city held a second parade on September 27, 2025, following his victory overCanelo Álvarez to become the undisputed super middleweight champion; the celebration drew roughly 100,000 supporters,^[300] and MayorJohn Ewing Jr. presented Crawford with another key to the city.^[301][302]

On July 19, 2024, Crawford was ringside forWWE SmackDown in his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska.^[303] During the event, he assistedCody Rhodes by handing him a chair that the wrestler then smackedGrayson Waller with.^[304]

Crawford appeared on Friday Night SmackDown again the following week, this time stepping into the ring to confront Waller andAustin Theory. Waller warned Crawford by saying "Look at me when I'm talking to you. If you take one more step, my boy Austin Theory will knock you out." Ignoring his warning, Crawford knocked Theory to the ground with one punch.^[305][306]

In September 2008, after shooting dice with a few friends, Crawford was shot on the right side of his head, right below his ear, while sitting in the driver's seat of his 1986Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. Reportedly, the nine-millimeter bullet changed trajectory after initially hitting the rear windshield. Had it not, it would have hit more directly, penetrated deeply, and done enough damage to be fatal. Despite the badly bleeding wound, Crawford was still able to drive himself to the hospital, where he received several stitches and was later discharged. Crawford fought and won his fifth match of the year against Michael Williams less than two months after the incident.^[307] When asked if he found out who the shooter was and if he was caught, Crawford responded "The shooter is dead, he got shot in the head".^[308]

In 2016, Crawford encountered legal issues stemming from an incident involving his1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo at anauto body shop in Omaha, Nebraska. Crawford hired the shop to repaint hisMonte Carlo, which cost around $2,500. He paid about half upfront, but was dissatisfied with both the quality of the work and the time it took to complete. The shop would not return the car until Crawford settled the remaining balance. Crawford came back with three friends and forcibly took the car off the hydraulic lift without making full payment. The hydraulic lift sustained damages estimated up to $5,000. The shop owner asserted that he felt threatened and accused Crawford of pushing him as he exited the shop, though he did not make any physical threats. On April 22, Crawford voluntarily surrendered to Omaha police and was formally charged with fourmisdemeanors:destruction of property,theft of service,misdemeanor assault, andtrespassing.^[309] In September, Crawford was found guilty of two misdemeanor offenses: property damage and disorderly conduct following a trial. In December, Crawford received a sentence of 90 days in jail, two years of probation, and 120 hours of community service. Crawford's attorneys immediately announced plans to appeal the verdict and the sentence.^[310][311] Crawford was expected to serve approximately 50 days in jail, but the jail sentence was eventually overturned on appeal. Probation and community service requirements remained in place.^[312][313]

In the early hours of his 38th birthday, just before 1:30 a.m. on September 28, 2025, Crawford was held at gunpoint during a traffic stop for reckless driving after officers observed a firearm on the driver's side floorboard. Police ordered Crawford and the three other occupants out of the vehicle with their weapons drawn. All four were legally permitted to carry firearms, and Crawford was cited for reckless driving. Omaha MayorJohn Ewing Jr. and Police Chief Todd Schmaderer later announced a review of the incident, with Schmaderer authorizing an internal affairs investigation.^[314][315] Schmaderer later said the internal investigation found no violations of policy. Officers had stopped Crawford's unplated sedan after it sped from a downtown garage, unaware he was driving. Body-cam footage showed the initial exchange was cordial, with Crawford explaining the new car "got away from him." Both he and a security guard disclosed legal firearms, though one officer did not hear that. Seeing a gun on the floor, the officer drew his weapon, and Crawford and the others were briefly handcuffed before being released. Schmaderer added that video of the stop will not be released without Crawford's consent.^[316][317]

In October 2013, Crawford co-founded B&B Sports Academy, a nonprofit gym dedicated to building the body, mind and character of young people, including at-risk youth in need of positive, structured activities.^[318] The academy is free for kids and includes a mandatory tutoring program that requires everyone to maintain at least a C average in school.^[319]

In 2013, Crawford started an Anti-Bullying campaign where he went to schools all overOmaha to discuss bullying, how to deal with it, and how to prevent it.^[320]

In 2014, Crawford traveled with his former teacher Jamie Nollette toRwanda andUganda on several charitable missions to help build and drill wells to create clean water for communities.^[321]

In September 2023, Crawford participated in a celebrity charity basketball game staged to benefit the Lifedriven Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to supporting adolescents diagnosed with cancer, and their families.^[322]

In 2024, he returned to Uganda for charity and other philanthropic reasons.^[323]

• WBO lightweight champion (135 lbs)
• WBA (Super) light welterweight champion (140 lbs)
• WBC light welterweight champion (140 lbs)
• IBF light welterweight champion (140 lbs)
• WBO light welterweight champion (140 lbs)
• WBA (Super) welterweight champion (147 lbs)
• WBC welterweight champion (147 lbs)
• IBF welterweight champion (147 lbs)
• WBO welterweight champion (147 lbs)
• WBA light middleweight champion (154 lbs)
• WBA (Super) super middleweight champion (168 lbs)
• WBC super middleweight champion (168 lbs)
• IBF super middleweight champion (168 lbs)
• WBO super middleweight champion (168 lbs)

• The Ring lightweight champion (135 lbs)
• The Ring light welterweight champion (140 lbs)
• The Ring welterweight champion (147 lbs)
• The Ring super middleweight champion (168 lbs)

• WBOinterimlight middleweight champion (154 lbs)

• NABOlightweight champion (135 lbs)

• Undisputed light welterweight champion^[h] (140 lbs)
• Undisputed welterweight champion^[i] (147 lbs)
• Undisputed super middleweight champion (168 lbs)

• Lineal lightweight champion^[324]
• Lineallight welterweight champion^[325]
• Linealwelterweight champion^[326]
• Linealsuper middleweight champion^[327]

• WBO Super Champion^[328]
• WBC welterweight Champion in Recess^[329]
• WBC Nahui Huey Altepemeh champion
• The Ring Special Edition belt champion^[330][331]
• WBC Crown Series Undisputed champion
• WBO Undisputed super middleweight champion^[332]

• Sugar Ray Robinson Award: 2014^[333]
• ESPN Fighter of the Year: 2014, 2017^[334][335]
• Best Fighter ESPY Award: 2018^[16]
• Best Boxer ESPY Award: 2024^[17]
• BoxingScene American Boxer of the Decade (2020s): 2025^[336]
• The Ring magazine Performance of the Year: 2023^[337]
• World Boxing Council Performance of the Year: 2023^[338]
• World Boxing Organization Fighter of the Year: 2016, 2017, 2018, 2023, 2025^{[339][340][341][342]}
• World Boxing Organization Most Promising Fighter: 2015^[341]
• World Boxing Organization Fight of the Year: 2014,^[343] 2023^[344]
• World Boxing Organization Triple Crown Award: 2018^[345]
• World Boxing Organization Most Consistent and Durable Champion: 2019^[346]
• World Boxing Organization Gordon Volkman Award: 2015^[347][348]
• World Boxing Association Boxer of the Month: August 2017, July 2023^[349][350]
• TheNevada Boxing Hall of Fame (NVBHOF) Fighter of the Year: 2018^[351]
• TheRING 8Muhammad Ali International Fighter of the Year: 2018^[352]
• Sports Illustrated Prospect of the Year: 2013^[353]
• Bleacher Report Breakout Fighter of the Year: 2014^[354]
• Forbes Fighter of the Year: 2017^[355]
• The Sporting News Men's Fighter of the Year: 2023^[356]
• Boxing News World Fighter of the Year: 2023^[357]
• CBS Sports Fighter of the Year: 2014^[358]
• HBO Fighter of the Year: 2014^[359]
• Yahoo! Sports Fighter of the Year: 2017, 2023^[360][361]
• Top Rank Fighter of the Year: 2014,^[362] 2015^[363]
• Top Rank Fight of the Year: 2014^[364][365]
• Top Rank Knockout of the Year: 2014^[366]
• Premier Boxing Champions Performance of the Year: 2023^[367]
• Metro Performance of the Year: 2023^[368]
• Boxing Junkie Fighter of the Year: 2023^[369]
• BOXRAW Knockout of the Year: 2022^[370]
• Boxing Insider Fighter of the Year: 2023^[371]
• WBN Stoppage of the Year: 2023^[372]
• The Sweet Science (TSS) Performance of the Year: 2023^[373]
• Frontproof Media Fighter of the Year: 2023^[374]
• ProBox TV Fighter of the Year: 2023^[375]
• ProBox TV Performance of the Year: 2023^[376]
• The Queensberry Rules Fighter of the Year: 2014^[377]
• Pro Boxing Fans Fighter of the Year: 2014^[378]
• Pro Boxing Fans Round of the Year: 2014^[379]
• Pro Boxing Fans Breakout Performance of the Year: 2014^[380]
• Fight Hype Star in the Making: 2013^[381]

• Omaha city council declared Tuesday, March 4, 2014, as Terence "Bud" Crawford Day.^[283]
• 2×Key to the City of Omaha, Nebraska: 2014,^[283] 2025^[302]
• The Shadow League Leadership Award: 2015^[382]
• Omaha Public Schools (OPS) Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2022^[383]
• University of Nebraska Omaha Spirit of the Maverick award: 2025 (inaugural honoree)^[384]
• On October 22, 2025, Crawford received one of the highest honors from theOmaha Tribe, a hand-stitched quilt bestowed by the Black Brown and Red Coalition.^[385][386]

• List of world lightweight boxing champions
• List of world light welterweight boxing champions
• List of world welterweight boxing champions
• List of world light middleweight boxing champions
• List of world super middleweight boxing champions
• List of WBA world champions
• List of WBC world champions
• List of IBF world champions
• List of WBO world champions
• List ofThe Ring world champions
• List of boxing triple champions
• List of boxing quadruple champions
• List of boxing quintuple champions
• List of undisputed world boxing champions