“Crawford vs. Tszyu: Clash of Titans on the Horizon as WBO ‘Super Champion’ Eyes Super Welterweight Glory!”
In a whirlwind of boxing drama, Terence Crawford’s stunning TKO victory over Errol Spence Jr. in 2023 still reverberates as a career-defining moment. The clash between these undefeated titans was anticipated as a showdown for the ages, and ‘Bud’ emerged victorious, handing ‘The Truth’ his first professional loss. However, despite Spence Jr.’s activation of the rematch clause, the window for their anticipated rematch has slammed shut, leaving fans and pundits alike in suspense.
Reports from reputable sources like Mike Coppinger and FightHype indicate that Terence Crawford, the former undisputed welterweight champion, has now transitioned into the realm of free agency. This monumental shift in Crawford’s career trajectory has ignited speculation and excitement within the boxing community, as fans eagerly await news of his next move.
According to the revelations shared by TalkSPORT boxing editor Michael Benson, Crawford’s contractual obligations with Al Haymon’s PBC for the Spence Jr. rematch have lapsed, rendering him a free agent in terms of promotional and broadcasting agreements. The implications of this newfound freedom are staggering, opening the door to a plethora of tantalizing matchups and potential career-defining moments for Crawford.
Adding fuel to the fire of speculation, WBO president Paco Valcarcel hinted at the possibility of Crawford venturing into the super welterweight division for his next bout. With his status as the WBO ‘super champion,’ Crawford could leverage his position to secure a clash with the highly regarded Tim Tszyu. Tszyu, who is slated to face Keith Thurman at a 155lbs catchweight, could potentially find himself in the crosshairs of Crawford’s ambition, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown.
However, amidst the buzz surrounding Crawford’s future endeavors, concerns over his inactivity loom large. Renowned boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, speaking on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, expressed apprehension regarding Crawford’s lack of activity since his momentous victory over Spence Jr. Hearn highlighted the importance of staying relevant in the sport and underscored the detrimental effects of prolonged inactivity, citing the example of Deontay Wilder.
Hearn’s remarks underscore the urgency for Crawford to seize the momentum garnered from his triumph over Spence Jr. and actively pursue opportunities to further solidify his legacy in the sport. As the boxing world eagerly awaits Crawford’s next move, the spotlight shines brightly on the enigmatic pugilist, with fans and pundits alike eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his illustrious career.
TalkSPORT boxing editor Michael Benson took to X to share Coppinger’s report, writing:
“Terence Crawford is reportedly now a free agent. It’s claimed Crawford signed a one-fight deal with Al Haymon’s PBC for Errol Spence and the scheduling window for the rematch clause has expired, meaning he is a promotional/broadcaster free agent.”
Benson also shared FightHype’s report, writing:
“WBO president Paco Valcarcel has revealed that he and Crawford have discussed the possibility of Crawford moving up to super-welterweight for his next fight. Crawford could use his status as WBO ‘super champion’ to automatically become WBO mandatory challenger for Tim Tszyu, who is first set to fight Keith Thurman at a 155lbs catchweight on March 30th.”
Hearn appeared on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, where he said this:
“The problem with Terence Crawford is, Crawford against X, it just doesn’t do the business that Terence needs for his number. This is what leads to inactivity. Look at Deontay Wilder, he had well over a year out the ring… All because he wouldn’t take the money that was on offer for a run out. Then flip the switch to [Anthony Joshua], who’s boxing four times in 11 months.”
He continued:
“You’ve got to keep relevant. But more importantly, when you get into a big fight you’ve got to be prepared. And that inactivity killed Deontay Wilder.”