Terence Crawford has said no to a big money fight offer. The undefeated switch-hitter from Omaha told reporters he's only looking for fights that bring in cash or add to his legacy at this point in his career.
Crawford, a champion in four weight classes and two-time undisputed champion, revealed he got a call about a two-fight deal with UFC superstar Conor McGregor. The offer included one boxing match and one MMA bout.
Crawford didn't hold back when he explained why he turned it down.
"I said hell no. You know what I mean? Me and Conor, they called me they offered me the fight. Me and Conor got on the phone, we start politicking, trying to figure something out. I just told him, man I'm not getting in no f***ing octagon with you so you can be kicking me and elbowing me and s**t. So, he gets to laughing and s**t and he's like man, I respect that."
McGregor understood Crawford's position. He told the boxer they'd both be at a disadvantage in each other's sport. But he also pointed out they'd make a ton of money.
Crawford wasn't swayed by the promise of a big payday. He told McGregor:
"I said, yeah sometimes it ain't about the money. I can make money, you ain't about to be kicking me dude. That s**t ain't no joke."
McGregor has some boxing experience. He stepped into the ring with Floyd Mayweather back in 2017. That fight turned out to be one of the most lucrative events in boxing history. The UFC star is expected to return to the octagon in 2025.
Crawford has his sights set on bigger fish. He's currently in talks for a super-welterweight unification bout with Sebastian Fundora. They've got just over a week to come to terms before purse bids. This fight will give us a clue about Crawford's plans for a potential showdown with Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez two divisions up.
A lot of fighters want a piece of Crawford right now. But it looks like he's staying focused on his goals: money and legacy fights only.
