Terence Crawford held retirement talk with former rival before announcing decision: ‘We met’

Terence Crawford spoke with former foe Israil Madrimov, informing him of his decision to retire before announcing it to the world.

Crawford announced that his career in the sport was over, after dethroning Canelo Alvarez as undisputed super-middleweight champion in September with a stunning display.

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The American retired while at the peak of his powers, and many questioned if it was simply a ploy to attract a bigger fight offer.

He had been linked with a rematch with the Mexican, and had even teased a move down to 160lbs for a world title pursuit in March.

But he ultimately decided enough was enough and called time, insisting that no fights would increase his legacy at this stage.

Former rival Madrimov, who Crawford defeated to become 154lbs world champion in 2024, spoke to the American first regarding his decision.

He revealed to The Ring: “Before he announced his retirement, we met, and he told me he’s done, he’s had enough of the sport, that he had achieved everything possible and that he’s not chasing money.

“He don’t care about all that stuff. He has everything he needs. I’m super happy for him.

“When he told me this, I was thinking maybe he was just saying that and maybe he was gonna get that huge offer, and he’ll take it.

“But he said no, that he doesn’t care.”

On whether he believes Crawford will stick to his decision, Madrimov added: “I believe that Terence is a man of his word.

“He said all he wants is his legacy and to leave the sport as one of the GOATs, one of the best, and without a blemish on his record.

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“I respect and appreciate that and wish him only the best of health and wealth for him and his big family.”

Should Crawford have retired?

Crawford has done what many have done by achieving it all in the boxing ring, and hanging up his gloves while at the height of his career.

‘Bud’ went out after making history against Alvarez, without the glum realisation he is past his best, or without any unnecessary defeats on his record.

However, there is significant belief in the boxing world that Crawford could have gone on to make further history, and capture a world title in a sixth weight class.

The American superstar would have been an overwhelming favourite in any fight with Erislandy Lara, and would have fancied his chances of beating Janibek Alimkhanuly.

Heavyweight star Anthony Joshua is of the opinion that Crawford should have continued his breathtaking streak going.

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He said: “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. 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.”