Las Vegas, NV — September 14, 2025 — Terence “Bud” Crawford has done it again. The Omaha native shocked the boxing world on Saturday night by defeating Mexican superstar Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez to become the undisputed super-middleweight champion of the world.
The fight took place in front of more than 70,000 fans at Allegiant Stadium and ended in a unanimous decision for Crawford, with judges scoring the bout 116-112, 115-113, and 115-113. With the victory, Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs) becomes the first male boxer in the four-belt era to be undisputed in three different weight classes.
Crawford Controls The Pace Against Canelo
While many predicted Canelo’s power would be too much for Crawford, the 37-year-old displayed his trademark patience and precision. After some close early rounds, Crawford began dictating the pace, using his footwork and counterpunching to frustrate Álvarez.
By the championship rounds, it was clear Crawford’s game plan worked. Canelo (63-3-2) landed some heavy shots but was unable to consistently cut off the ring or slow down Crawford’s rhythm.

Photograph: Chris Unger/TKO Worldwide LLC/Getty Images
What This Win Means For Crawford’s Legacy
This victory cements Crawford as one of the greatest fighters of his generation:
- Three-Division Undisputed Champion — No other male fighter in the modern four-belt era has achieved this milestone.
- Pound-for-Pound King — Crawford’s win over Canelo propels him to the top of many analysts’ pound-for-pound lists.
- Historic Upset — Moving up two weight divisions, Crawford defied the odds against one of boxing’s most dominant champions.
Canelo’s Next Move
Canelo praised Crawford after the fight, admitting he was the better man on the night. Still, speculation is already mounting about what comes next:
- Will Canelo push for a rematch?
- Could he return to light heavyweight?
- Or will this mark the beginning of the end of his legendary career?

Photograph: Ed Mulholland/TKO Worldwide LLC/Getty Images
Fan & Media Reactions
Reactions poured in across social media and press outlets:
- Many called the win “historic” and one of Crawford’s greatest performances.
- Others noted how Canelo looked a step slower, raising questions about whether age and mileage are catching up to him.
- The fight has already sparked debates about where Crawford ranks all-time among boxing legends like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
The Bottom Line
Terence Crawford’s win over Canelo Álvarez wasn’t just another title fight — it was a defining moment in boxing history. By becoming the first man to achieve undisputed status in three weight classes, Crawford has cemented his name among the all-time greats.
As for Canelo, the boxing world now waits to see whether the proud Mexican warrior will seek redemption in a rematch, or take his storied career in another direction.