Terence Crawford Steps Down from WBA Welterweight

Terence Crawford, the unbeaten American boxer, has vacated his WBA welterweight title which elevated Brian Norman Jr. from interim to full WBA world champion. At 36, Crawford recently added the WBA light-middleweight title to his collection after defeating Israil Madrimov. This move shows Crawford’s shift to light-middleweight, where he aims to pursue unification fights.

Norman Jr., 23, remains undefeated in 26 professional fights with 20 knockouts. He captured the interim WBA title in May by stopping Giovani Santillan. Crawford has held titles in four weight divisions and remains unbeaten in 41 professional bouts. He previously achieved undisputed champion status in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions.

His recent victory over Madrimov set up a potential high-profile clash with Mexican star Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez. However, discussions about this super-fight have slowed because Saudi Arabia powerbroker Turki Alalshikh has expressed reluctance. Crawford will face mandatory challenger Sebastian Fundora for the WBO light-middleweight title.

Meanwhile, Alalshikh wants Crawford to fight interim title holder Vergil Ortiz Jr. Additionally, IBF welterweight champion Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis has emerged as a potential future opponent for Crawford. This development reshapes the landscape of the welterweight and light-middleweight divisions. Terence Crawford’s decision to focus on unification fights signals a new chapter in his illustrious career.