Terence Crawford has brought his boxing career to a close, announcing retirement at age 38 with a skillful 42-0 professional record. The announcement came Tuesday through a social media video, three months after his September masterclass against Canelo Álvarez in Las Vegas.
The Álvarez fight showcased Crawford’s skillful approach to boxing, as he systematically dominated the Mexican legend to win the undisputed super middleweight championship by unanimous decision. The performance exemplified the skillful technique that defined his entire career and provided the perfect bookend to his time in the ring.
In announcing his retirement, Crawford emphasized the importance of leaving by choice. He reflected on a career motivated by the need to prove himself repeatedly through skillful performances, while fighting for his family, his Nebraska community, and his childhood dreams.
The southpaw began his professional career in 2008 and captured his first world title in 2014 by defeating Ricky Burns for the WBO lightweight championship. His skillful technique and tactical intelligence allowed him to systematically conquer five weight divisions, adapting his approach to overcome every challenge.
Crawford retires with remarkable credentials: 42 consecutive victories, 31 knockouts, 18 world titles in five different weight classes, never being knocked down, and holding three super middleweight belts (WBA, IBF, WBO). His perfect record includes the distinction that every single victory came via stoppage or unanimous decision, with not a single judge ever ruling in favor of any opponent he faced throughout his entire professional career.