In a career-defining performance that will be etched in boxing history, Terence “Bud” Crawford cemented his legacy by defeating Saul “Canelo” Álvarez by a unanimous decision at Allegiant Stadium.
The victory, with judges’ scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 115-113, marked an extraordinary feat for Crawford. The American boxer, who moved up two weight classes to challenge the reigning super-middleweight champion, became the first male fighter in the four-belt era to become an undisputed champion in three different divisions.
For much of the fight, Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs) showcased his technical brilliance and masterful ring generalship. He outmaneuvered the bigger Álvarez, using his speed and footwork to land clean, precise combinations while neutralizing the Mexican superstar’s vaunted power. Álvarez (63-3-2), who tipped the scales at the same career-high weight as Crawford, appeared on the back foot for the first half of the bout.
Although Álvarez rallied in the later rounds, his efforts were not enough to overcome Crawford’s dominant start. The fight, which was broadcast globally on Netflix, delivered on its promise of high-level boxing, with both men displaying skill and heart over the full 12 rounds.
In his post-fight interview, a respectful Crawford acknowledged his opponent. “Canelo is a great champion. I have nothing but respect for him, and he fought like a champion today,” he said, before thanking his supporters and detractors. Álvarez was equally gracious in defeat. “I’m a winner for being here. There is no defeat here. I take risks and that’s what I have done,” he said.
The victory adds Álvarez’s name to Crawford’s impressive list of defeated opponents, which includes fellow champions Errol Spence Jr. and Kell Brook. For Crawford, the win solidifies his place in the pantheon of boxing greats, leaving him with an unbeaten record and a legacy as a three-division undisputed champion.
10 Things to Know About Terence Crawford
- A Three-Division King: With his victory over Álvarez, Crawford became the first male boxer in the four-belt era to hold all four major titles simultaneously in three different weight classes: light-welterweight, welterweight, and now super-middleweight.
- A Flawless Record: He maintains a perfect professional record of 42-0 with 31 of those wins coming by knockout.
- Hometown Hero: Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Crawford remains deeply connected to his roots. He founded the B&B Boxing Academy, a non-profit that offers free boxing and fitness training to local children.
- A Versatile Fighter: Crawford is known for his ability to seamlessly switch his stance from orthodox to southpaw during a fight, a rare skill that allows him to create different angles and confuse his opponents.
- A Technical Master: He is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent and adaptable boxers in the sport. His ability to “solve the puzzle” of his opponent mid-fight has led to many of his most decisive victories.
- A Survivor’s Story: In 2008, Crawford survived a gunshot to the head after a dice game. The bullet remains lodged in his skull, but the experience fueled his determination to succeed.
- Amateur Standout: As an amateur, Crawford compiled a record of 58-12 and defeated future world champions such as Mikey Garcia and Danny Garcia.
- A Relentless Finisher: Known for his patient and methodical approach, Crawford often breaks down his opponents over several rounds before unleashing a torrent of punches to secure a knockout.
- Global Debut on Netflix: The fight against Álvarez was a historic event for both boxing and streaming. It was the first time a bout of this magnitude was streamed globally on Netflix, making it accessible to a massive, worldwide audience.
- A Family Man: Outside of the ring, Crawford is a devoted father of six children. He also enjoys hunting, fishing, and gaming.
