Terence Crawford faces a big choice: fight Canelo Alvarez or hang up his gloves. That's what Eddie Hearn thinks about the undefeated champion's future.
Crawford just became a four-weight world champion, adding to his impressive 41-0 record. The 36-year-old switch-hitter from Omaha has done it all. He's one of only three boxers to become undisputed in two divisions in the four-belt era. His last two fights were huge events.
Now, Crawford wants to be a five-weight world champion. But his options are limited. The WBC and WBO ordered him to fight Sebastian Fundora for the super-welterweight titles. Crawford already won the WBA belt from Israil Madrimov.
But Hearn doesn't think Crawford will take that fight. Speaking to ES News, the former Canelo promoter said:
"I don't think he'll take the Fundora fight. If he can't get Canelo, I think he'll retire. I don't think he wants to fight anyone else. I don't think he'll fight Vergil Ortiz. He's made a lot of money in his last couple of fights. If he can't get another big payday, I think he's done."
Crawford himself has admitted retirement is an option. His coach, Brian 'BoMac' McIntyre, agrees. He said Crawford could retire because there's nothing left to accomplish in boxing.
The fight Crawford really wants is against Canelo Alvarez, the unified super-middleweight champion. But Canelo's got other plans. He's set to fight Edgar Berlanga on September 14. After that, he'll listen to offers.
Money could be an issue. It's not clear if Turki Alalshikh can meet Canelo's demands. If the Canelo fight doesn't happen, Crawford might call it quits. He's made good money in his recent fights and might not want to take on lesser-known opponents.
For now, Crawford's future hangs in the balance. Will he get his dream fight with Canelo? Or will one of boxing's best decide it's time to walk away? Only time will tell.
