Yes. As of December 16, 2025, Terence Crawford has officially retired from professional boxing.
Terence Crawford, widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of his generation, has officially announced that he is stepping away from the sport. The long-rumored question of did Terence Crawford retire has been answered decisively in the final weeks of 2025, and the world of boxing is taking stock of what this means for the landscape of the sport. Today, the 38-year-old announced his retirement from professional boxing after an extraordinary undefeated career that cemented his status among the all-time greats.
In a video message shared on social media, Crawford made clear that he has chosen to end his time in the ring with a perfect record and at the pinnacle of his powers, saying he was “walking away as a great with nothing else left to prove.” This marks the culmination of a remarkable journey that saw him capture world titles across multiple weight classes and redefine what it means to be a modern boxing champion.
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A Career Defined by Undefeated Dominance
Terence “Bud” Crawford leaves the sport with a pristine professional record of 42 wins and no losses, including 31 wins by knockout. His undefeated streak through more than a decade of competition places him in rarefied air among boxing’s elite. Crawford’s rise began modestly, but his relentless drive and tactical brilliance propelled him to the highest echelons of the sport.
Crawford first gained international attention by defeating Ricky Burns for the WBO lightweight title. From there, he methodically climbed through weight divisions, taking on bigger and more dangerous opponents. Along the way, he captured major belts in five different weight classes. This included becoming undisputed champion in three divisions—the first male boxer to achieve that feat in the four-belt era. His trilogy of undisputed titles includes victories across junior welterweight, welterweight, and super middleweight, culminating in one of the most iconic wins of his career over Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in September 2025. That victory not only unified the super middleweight titles but also drew massive global attention to Crawford’s technical mastery and ring IQ.
Historic Win Over Canelo Alvarez Caps Legendary Run
One of the defining moments of Crawford’s career came on September 13, 2025, when he moved up to super middleweight to face Canelo Alvarez at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. In that bout, Crawford delivered a masterful performance, winning by unanimous decision and capturing all four major world titles in the division. This victory stood as one of the most significant upsets and achievements in recent boxing history, especially given Canelo’s reputation as one of the sport’s most accomplished fighters. The bout was not just a win on Crawford’s ledger—it was a statement that solidified his place in history.
Crawford’s performance against Alvarez was watched by millions around the world and attracted one of the largest live event crowds for a boxing match in the United States in 2025. The victory made Crawford the undisputed champion in three separate weight classes over the course of his career, underlining his versatility, adaptability, and competitive longevity.
Official Retirement Announcement: On His Own Terms
The question did Terence Crawford retire was put to rest when he announced his decision publicly in mid-December 2025. In his announcement video, Crawford reflected on his career’s journey and victories, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs that defined his time in the sport. Rather than hinting at a possible future comeback, his statements emphasized that this decision was deliberate and final. He expressed gratitude to his trainers, family, fans, and the sport of boxing itself for shaping both his career and personal life.
Crawford explained that he was retiring while still healthy and at the peak of his abilities, making it clear that he wanted to leave boxing on his own terms. His words underscored a commitment to legacy over longevity, choosing to step away with a perfect record and unmatched list of accomplishments. This approach to retirement reflects not only a personal milestone but also a strategic understanding of how he wants to be remembered in the sport’s history.
Legacy and Impact on Boxing
Crawford’s decision to retire immediately places him in the conversation with other all-time greats who exited the sport without defeat. His legacy extends beyond titles and belts. He is celebrated for his skillful boxing style, adaptability across weight classes, and ability to dominate elite competition consistently. Throughout his career, Crawford faced and defeated world-class opponents including Yuriorkis Gamboa, Viktor Postol, Amir Khan, Errol Spence Jr., and finally Canelo Alvarez—each contest showcasing different dimensions of his boxing acumen.
Perhaps more importantly, Crawford’s journey from relatively under the radar prospects to undisputed champion inspired a generation of fighters, particularly those who may not fit the typical “star” mold early in their careers. His rise through adversity, combined with tactical brilliance and measured aggression, provides a blueprint for modern boxers striving for greatness.
What Comes Next for Boxing’s World Titles
With Crawford’s retirement, several championships now stand vacant or are poised for reshuffling. Boxing’s governing bodies are already moving to determine the next contenders in the divisions Crawford dominated, ensuring that the sport remains competitive and vibrant. His departure leaves a void at the top of the pound-for-pound rankings, but it also creates opportunities for emerging fighters to step into the spotlight.
Championship bouts will be scheduled to fill the vacant titles in junior welterweight, welterweight, and super middleweight divisions. Boxing fans can expect a period of transition as new rivalries form, and ranking contenders clash for the belts previously held by Crawford.
Reflections From the Boxing Community
Reactions to Crawford’s retirement announcement have poured in from across the boxing world. Fans, pundits, and fellow fighters alike have paid tribute to his career and expressed admiration for the way he carried himself both inside and outside the ring. Many observers note that Crawford’s legacy extends beyond his winning record—his professionalism, respect for the sport, and quiet confidence have defined him as an ambassador of boxing.
Boxing analysts have highlighted Crawford’s strategic prowess, emphasizing that his ability to adapt mid-fight and exploit opponents’ weaknesses made him a uniquely difficult opponent for any challenger. His style blended technical skill with calculated aggression, enabling him to compete successfully across multiple divisions—a rare accomplishment in the sport’s history.
Final Answer: Yes, Terence Crawford Has Retired
The verified facts make it clear: did Terence Crawford retire? Yes. As of December 16, 2025, Terence Crawford has officially retired from professional boxing. His retirement marks the end of a 42-0 career that spanned five weight classes, multiple undisputed championships, and historic victories over elite opponents. Crawford exits the sport as one of the most decorated and respected figures in boxing history, having achieved feats that will be celebrated for generations.
His decision to walk away on his own terms ensures that his legacy remains untarnished, leaving fans with memories of a fighter who fought with heart, precision, and unwavering determination.
Let us know what part of Terence Crawford’s career impressed you most and stay tuned for the next chapter in boxing history!
