Victory over Errol Spence Jr was a significant part of Terence Crawford’s record-breaking career.
The two met back in July of 2023 as welterweight world champions, Spence the unified WBC, WBA and IBF, Crawford the WBO. In what was seen by many to be a pick ’em fight, Crawford dominated to become undisputed.
After a short stop at super-welterweight – beating Israil Madrimov to become a four-weight titleholder – ‘Bud’ Crawford then leaped up to challenge Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez. That unanimous decision win last year made him a four-time undisputed, five-division champion. Months later, he would announce his retirement fro the sport with an undefeated record of 42-0
Speaking to FightHype, Spence praised his former rival for bowing out at the best time.
“No, I wasn’t surprised. I mean, he’s done everything you can do in the sport, so what’s left? He’s got his health – that’s the most important thing to take. He’s got his kids, his family, and you want to be there for them. It must’ve been beautiful to retire when he’s on top, because a lot of fighters don’t get to do that.”
Despite big fight opportunities and significant money on the table, Crawford seems to be sticking to his guns and staying retired.
The same may not be said for Spence, who has been out of action since that 2023 defeat but linked with a return on a few occasions. The 35 year old keeps tight-lipped about a potential comeback when asked, suggesting some part of him has a desire to fight on.
