Terence Crawford: The Relentless Pursuit of Greatness Ahead of the Canelo Showdown
By Andreas Hale | September 10, 2025, 12:47 PM ET
Andreas Hale, a seasoned combat sports journalist at ESPN, specializes in breaking down the intricacies of MMA, boxing, and pro wrestling. His background as a music journalist and filmmaker enriches his perspective on the world of sports.
Terence Crawford’s life is defined by a burning desire to defy expectations. As he prepares to move up two weight classes to battle Canelo Alvarez for the world championships at 168 pounds, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Crawford, currently listed as the No. 3 pound-for-pound fighter by ESPN.
For Crawford, success transcends the boxing ring, extending into games like chess, table tennis, and even music playlists. The essence of his competitive spirit is driven by a singular focus: proving the naysayers wrong. “It’s a trait I was born with,” he shared during a training session at the UFC Performance Institute in Las Vegas. “Being undersized made me strive harder than others.”
Crawford emphasizes his unyielding mentality: “Losing is simply not an option.”
His latest challenge is historic. While Crawford has already secured titles in two weight divisions, no male boxer has ever achieved undisputed status in three. A victory on Saturday would place him in an elite class alongside Claressa Shields in women’s boxing, and move him closer to joining the late South African champion Dingaan “The Rose of Soweto” Thobela as one of the few to have won world titles at both lightweight and super middleweight.
His relentless drive is recognized not only by fans but also by fellow fighters like WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson, who describes Crawford as the most competitive individual he’s ever known. “Everything is a contest for him,” Stevenson noted. “It’s like he has a divine gift for competitiveness.”
When Crawford steps into the ring against Canelo, he plans to walk out with four additional championship belts. His confidence is palpable, as he declared, “Canelo’s fans will be crying Sunday morning when I take his belts.”
A Singular Focus on Victory
Crawford’s dedication goes beyond just being a boxer. He shuns team sports due to their unpredictable nature, opting for a path where he controls the outcome entirely. This competitive obsession drove him away from football at a young age, as he sought dominance where his efforts solely dictated the result. “When my mind is set, I’m not losing,” said welterweight Boubacar Sylla, a long-time training partner.
Like many others, Sylla has witnessed Crawford’s unwavering will to triumph: “I haven’t seen him lose, period.”
The story of Crawford’s journey is punctuated by moments that showcase his drive. In 2021, Shawn Porter faced Crawford and attested to his relentless competitive nature, noting that Crawford separated himself from peers in the amateur circuit due to his aggressive ambition and solo mentality.
Crawford’s path was shaped by defeats and near-misses, including a bid for the 2008 Olympic team where he fell short. Once he turned pro in 2008, victories began to build his reputation, with his defining moment coming then in 2013 when he outpointed the stronger Breidis Prescott.
“I just needed an opportunity,” Crawford reflected. “Nobody knew who I was until I fought Prescott. I showed them who I am.”
Crawford’s rapid ascent changed perceptions. As he gained global recognition, the landscape shifted further, pushing him to seek higher challenges. After his 2023 victory over Errol Spence, Crawford felt the need for another monumental fight, eventually setting his sights on Canelo after initially considering Jermell Charlo.
There’s a stark realization that pervades Crawford’s preparations; he thrives as the underdog, relishing the “me against the world” narrative. Porter believes this fuels him: “He needs that chip – it’s essential for his drive.”
Despite the odds stacked against him, Crawford embraces the challenge. As he prepares for a showdown at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Mexican Independence Day weekend, he recognizes that not only does he fight Canelo, but also disenfranchised fans and doubters: “I have enemies in both camps, but I’m here to rise above.”
The Fight Ahead
With the weight difference and a +140 underdog status, Crawford is unfazed. For him, defeat is not an option. “Canelo may be considered elite, but I hold a distinct edge,” he stated. The time has come for Crawford to put his skills against the renowned champion. “Canelo has lost before, but I have never tasted that defeat.”
As the fight draws near, all eyes will be on Terence Crawford as he aims to rewrite history once again. This battle is not merely a challenge for the belts; it’s a contest for legacy, a clash of titans set in the vibrant backdrop of Las Vegas, promising excitement for fans worldwide.