Terence Crawford Announces Retirement After Historic Win Over Canelo Alvarez

Terence Crawford, the 38‑year‑old champion, has announced his retirement after a historic victory over Canelo Alvarez on September 13, 2025. The win, which secured his third unified super‑middleweight title, marked the culmination of a 42‑0 record that includes 31 knockouts.

A Career Built on Versatility

Crawford turned professional in 2008 and, over the next decade, captured titles in four different weight classes: lightweight, super‑lightweight, welterweight and super‑welterweight. By moving up two more divisions, he became the only male boxer to hold three unified titles, a feat that had eluded the sport’s greatest fighters until now.

The Decisive Night at Allegiant Stadium

The bout took place before 70,482 fans at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. Judges rendered a unanimous decision of 116‑112, 115‑113, 115‑113 in Crawford’s favor, giving him the undisputed super‑middleweight championship. The fight was billed as part of Netflix’s Canelo v Crawford Fight Night, a high‑profile event that attracted global attention.

A Video Message That Stated It All

In a 5 ½‑minute video released on Tuesday, Crawford reflected on the journey that led him to this point. “Every fighter knows this moment would come,” he said. “You just never know when.” The clip also highlighted the fact that his final 20 bouts had all been fought with a belt on the line.

Why He Decided to Walk Away

Crawford explained that, while he could have taken another fight for a massive payday, he chose to retire instead. “This sport gave me everything,” he said. “I fought for my family. I fought for the city. I fought for the kid I used to be, the one who had nothing but a dream and a pair of gloves, and I did it all my way.

I’\’ve made peace with what\’s next. It\’s time.” He emphasized that the decision was personal and rooted in a desire to honor the people who had supported him throughout his career.

Legacy and Impact

By ending his career with an undefeated record, Crawford has set a new standard for excellence in boxing. His achievements span across multiple weight divisions, and his final fight against a former champion cemented his place among the sport’s legends. The announcement also comes at a time when boxing is slated to return to the Olympic program in Los Angeles in 2028, a development that has sparked renewed interest in the sport’s governance and future.

Key Takeaways

• Terence Crawford retires after defeating Canelo Alvarez, becoming the only male boxer with three unified titles.
• The 42‑0 record includes 31 knockouts and 20 title‑bearing bouts.
• The decision was announced in a personal video that highlighted family, city, and personal dreams.

Crawford’s retirement marks the end of an era for boxing, but his legacy—built on versatility, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his craft—will continue to inspire fighters for generations to come.