Anthony Joshua believes Terence Crawford should make U-turn on retirement decision

Anthony Joshua has suggested that Terence Crawford has retired too soon.

Crawford sent shock waves around the sport when he announced his retirement this month.

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After beating Canelo Alvarez in September to become undisputed champion in a third weight class, ‘Bud’ decided it was time to bow out.

When the 38-year-old shared the news on social media, the comment section quickly filled with reactions from some of the biggest names in combat sports.

While Crawford’s decision was met with an outpour of support, many were shocked that he hung up his gloves while in such dominant form.

One man who can’t quite grasp the boxing icon’s retirement is former two-time heavyweight champion Joshua.

During his appearance on Ring Magazine’s Mr. Verzace Podcast, Joshua explained: “I feel like Terence Crawford has got so, so much more to give.

“But it’s not just physical, it’s what’s going on in his mind.

“He’s been in the game for a long time, so maybe he’s like ‘forget it, I’m done mentally’, even though physically he’s good.”

While Joshua may not agree with his decision, he respects that only Crawford knows when the time is right for him to call it a day.

He continued: “I would love to see him continue fighting.

“I think he’s got a lot left, but we have to live and let others live by their own rules.”

Crawford had an illustrious run which sees him join the likes of Floyd Mayweather Jr and Joe Calzaghe in an elite group of boxers who retired undefeated.

Although there may well be several tempting offers in 2026 to try and lure him back into the ring, with some interest from Canelo Alvarez in an immediate sequel.

What did Terence Crawford say about retiring?

Following his initial announcement, Crawford shared an emotional statement to address his reasons for retiring.

He explained: “I’m stepping away from competition, not because I’m done fighting, but because I’ve won a different type of battle.

“This isn’t goodbye, it’s just the end of one fight and the beginning of another.

“I’ve been blessed to live out a dream that started long before the lights, the fans, or the world titles.

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“From Omaha to the biggest stages in boxing, every step of this journey was earned through sacrifice, discipline, and faith.

“I gave this sport everything I had. I faced the best, moved through weight classes, and made history on my own terms.

“42-0. 3x Undisputed. Five division world champion. No shortcuts. No excuses.

“This isn’t goodbye to boxing…it’s a thank you. Thank you to my family, my team, my city, and the fans who rode with me through every chapter. Thank you to the sport for shaping the man I am today.

“The gloves may have come off but legacy is forever. History is never retired.”