Boxing champion Terence Crawford has confirmed his retirement from the sport at age 38, ending his career with a spotless 42-0 record. The announcement came Tuesday through an emotional social media video posted three months after his September victory over Canelo Álvarez.
Crawford’s final fight against Álvarez in Las Vegas showcased the full extent of his abilities, as he systematically dismantled one of boxing’s biggest names to win the undisputed super middleweight championship by unanimous decision. The performance cemented Crawford’s place among boxing’s all-time elite and provided the perfect bookend to his career.
In announcing his retirement, Crawford emphasized the importance of leaving on his own terms, describing it as a different kind of victory than those earned in the ring. He discussed the deeper motivations that sustained him throughout his career—the need to silence doubters, support his family, represent Nebraska proudly, and honor the dreams of his younger self.
Crawford turned professional in 2008 and captured his first world title six years later by defeating Ricky Burns for the WBO lightweight championship. His southpaw style and technical mastery made him a nightmare matchup for opponents, and he successfully moved through five weight divisions, collecting championships and establishing an unmatched winning streak.
The final statistics are exceptional: 42 consecutive victories, 31 knockouts, 18 world titles across five weight divisions, never knocked down, and holding three super middleweight belts (WBA, IBF, WBO). Crawford’s perfect record includes the remarkable achievement that every single victory came by stoppage or unanimous decision, with no judge ever scoring in favor of any opponent he faced—a testament to his complete dominance over two decades.