SHOULD TERENCE CRAWFORD RETIRE AFTER HIS RECORD SETTING BOXING VICTORY OVER CANELO ALVAREZ?

This past Saturday, Terrence “Bud” Crawford shook the boxing world once again with a stunning and historic victory over Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. By outclassing one of the most decorated and celebrated fighters of this generation, Crawford didn’t just win a fight—he etched his name even deeper into boxing’s history books. In becoming a three-time undisputed champion across three different weight classes, something no one else has ever done, he may have reached the pinnacle of what a fighter can accomplish.

The question now stands: should Terrence Crawford retire after his crowning moment?

Crawford’s Legacy Is Already Sealed

Few fighters in history have had the resume and dominance that Crawford now possesses. He was already considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of the last decade, but defeating Canelo Alvarez cements his place in the conversation among all-time greats. He didn’t just beat Canelo—he made it look easy.

At 37 years old, Crawford has nothing left to prove inside the squared circle. He conquered 135 pounds, ruled at 140 pounds, destroyed the competition at welterweight, and then leaped up three divisions to dethrone one of the most powerful and marketable champions of the modern era. Retirement at this moment would mean he walks away on top, undefeated in his prime, and with no blemish on his record or reputation.

The Jake Paul Factor

Some may scoff at the idea, but there’s no denying the financial appeal of a showdown with Jake Paul. For years, Paul has been criticized as a YouTuber-turned-boxer gimmick. But one thing can’t be denied: his fights draw massive attention and generate huge paydays.

If Crawford were to step into the ring with Paul, it would not be a “clown show.” Quite the opposite—Crawford has built so much credibility and respect that such a fight would only elevate his bank account, not damage his legacy. Fans know Crawford has fought and beaten the very best. Beating Jake Paul would simply be a fun, lucrative exhibition to close out his career, and it might actually bring mainstream attention to just how great Crawford truly is.

A fight with Jake Paul could realistically be the biggest payday of Crawford’s career—more than he’d earn fighting any other legitimate contender. And at this stage, who could begrudge him for taking the money?

Why Not Benavidez?

The boxing media has already started whispering about David Benavidez as a potential opponent. Benavidez is younger, bigger, stronger, and fighting at a weight class where Crawford has no real business competing.

But here’s the hypocrisy: when Canelo Alvarez was dominating the sport, there was little real pressure for him to face Benavidez. So why should Crawford, after daring to jump up three weight classes to fight Canelo, now be forced into a fight that could tarnish his health and legacy?

If boxing wants consistency, then the same energy used to pressure Crawford should have been directed at Canelo during his reign. Asking Crawford to climb even higher at this stage is not just unfair—it’s unnecessary.

Why Retirement Makes Sense

At this point, Crawford has written his chapter in boxing history. He doesn’t need to risk injury or defeat by chasing bigger men who bring little to his legacy. Walking away now would make him one of the few fighters in history to retire on top, undefeated, undisputed, and universally respected.

But if he does fight once more, it should be on his terms. A Jake Paul exhibition would be the perfect way to cash in, entertain fans, and walk off into the sunset with his legacy intact and his bank account even heavier.

Final Thoughts

Terrence Crawford’s victory over Canelo Alvarez was not just a win—it was a statement. It proved that hard work, discipline, and skill can transcend weight classes and eras. Whether he chooses to retire immediately or step in for one last spectacle against Jake Paul, Crawford owes nothing more to boxing.

If he hangs up the gloves today, he leaves as a legend. If he takes one more fight for a historic payday, it will only add to his legend. Either way, Terrence Crawford has already done what few thought was possible: he conquered boxing itself.