Terence Crawford may boast an immaculate professional record, but one man claims to have “smoked” the surefire Hall of Famer in the amateurs.
In the professional code, ‘Bud’ ended his career as a three-division undisputed champion, just a few months removed from his astounding triumph over Canelo Alvarez.
But despite his remarkable 42-fight campaign, the American enjoyed comparatively modest success in the unpaid ranks, where he crafted an overall record of 58-12.
Still, Crawford was able to win several national tournaments, while amassing victories over Danny and Mikey Garcia, yet it must be said that the professional code was his preferred domain.
But it was nonetheless considered a resounding achievement when Miguel Gonzalez, an elite amateur himself, defeated ‘Bud’ by a margin of 32–23.
‘Silky Smooth’ had lost to Crawford by much tighter margins on two previous occasions, both times feeling aggrieved by the result.
This time around, though, the Ohio native took the bull by the horns and denied his rival any further success in the amateurs.
Speaking with FightHype, Gonzalez gave his interpretation of what unfolded.
“The first time I fought Bud [in 2006], I came from a two-year layoff and I thought I smoked Bud. [But] they [the judges] gave it to him by two-three points.
“The second time I boxed Bud [in 2007], I smoked Bud. [But] they robbed me by one point. I was so angry. They ended up taking a point from me and gave him the decision. I was blowing him out every round.
“The third time I fought Bud [2007], it was all-out. [I] smoked his ass for sure. Blew him out the water.”
Gonzalez also praised Crawford for what he went on to achieve in his career following their encounters.
“I take my hat off to Bud. Big ups to Crawford. His whole career I never felt like he took any wrong paths… The way he did his career, I respect it.”
Despite Gonzalez defeating the great Crawford, it was actually Sadam Ali who, after outpointing both fighters, would go on to represent Team USA at the 2008 Olympics.
