Crawford Addresses Retirement Critics

Three-weight undisputed champion Terence Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs) addressed critics who claim he “retired early” to avoid a showdown with Jaron Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs).

Crawford, who officially retired on December 16, 2025, after beating Canelo Alvarez to become the undisputed super middleweight champion, made it clear that his decision was based on a completed legacy rather than a fear of any challenger. Crawford’s final victory over Canelo made him the first male fighter in the four-belt era to become undisputed in three weight classes (140 lbs, 147 lbs, and 168 lbs). Critics argue that Crawford’s retirement at age 38 was perfectly timed to avoid Ennis, who had been vocal about wanting to retire Bud. Crawford reminded fans that he has spent 30 years in the sport, with nothing else to prove. 

“What’s better than being Undisputed? Being Undisputed two times. What better then being Undisputed two times? Being Undisputed 3 times in three different weights,” Crawford said

Regardless of Crawford’s comments, the Saudis are trying to get him out of retirement for a rematch vs. Canelo, a fight Canelo also wants. We will see if they can come up with a figure that will lure the three-division undisputed champ back to the ring for one final fight and one more lucrative payday.