Terence Crawford’s retirement announcement triggered divided reactions across the boxing world. Several former fighters praised his discipline and technical skill. Others responded with criticism rather than celebration. The 38-year-old repeatedly spoke about feeling overlooked. He believed fans and analysts undervalued his accomplishments.
Crawford confirmed his retirement date as December 16. He leaves the sport undefeated with a perfect 42-0 record. Many observers expect greater appreciation over time. Several veterans already highlighted his consistency and ring intelligence. Crawford built his reputation through dominance across multiple weight divisions.
Not every reaction carried respect. One legendary figure responded with open skepticism. That figure previously clashed publicly with Crawford. Their history intensified the response to the retirement news.
Oscar De La Hoya reignites feud and dismisses Crawford’s legacy
Terence Crawford long insisted he could defeat boxing’s greatest legends. He admitted his résumé lacked certain historic opponents. Still, he expressed confidence against elite fighters from any era. His final victory over Canelo Alvarez strengthened that belief.
The win marked a defining moment in Crawford’s career. He defeated one of boxing’s biggest modern stars. The victory reinforced years of confidence. One legendary opponent remained missing from his record. Manny Pacquiao never faced Crawford inside the ring.
Oscar De La Hoya recently claimed Pacquiao would have knocked Crawford out in his prime. He made the statement while speaking to Mail Sport Boxing. Crawford rejected the claim publicly on X. He accused De La Hoya of speaking from personal bitterness. Pacquiao stopped De La Hoya in his final professional fight in 2008.
Their past guaranteed another exchange. De La Hoya reacted swiftly to the retirement announcement. He posted several Instagram comments shared by DAZN Boxing. He labeled Crawford a “tool” and dismissed his résumé. De La Hoya said multiple fighters could compete with Crawford and likely beat him. He added that Crawford only defeated two good fighters.
Manny Pacquiao offers respect but hints at a missed showdown
Terence Crawford pursued a fight with Manny Pacquiao for many years. The matchup never materialized before Pacquiao moved on. Crawford previously addressed De La Hoya’s comments online. Pacquiao responded directly beneath that post.
Pacquiao showed respect toward Crawford. He congratulated him and sent blessings to his family. The message carried a calm and respectful tone. Fans viewed the exchange positively.
Pacquiao later revisited the missed fight during an ESNEWS interview. His tone reflected quiet confidence. He suggested timing worked in Crawford’s favor. Pacquiao said Crawford felt lucky that the fight never happened.
