Terence Crawford's boxing career stands as a testament to perseverance and skill, yet it's often overlooked in the sport's history. The fighter from Omaha, Nebraska, now close to 38 years old, has achieved champion status in five weight categories, but his journey to the top wasn't smooth.
Crawford's boxing story began at age 7 when Midge Minor recruited him to train at CW Boxing Club in North Omaha. The gym offered a refuge for young people from the harsh realities of street life, setting Crawford on a path that would shape his future.
In 2008, Crawford's life took several dramatic turns. He won multiple amateur tournaments but missed out on qualifying for the Beijing Olympics, where he'd been the main American candidate in the lightweight category. This setback led him to turn professional, but his career almost ended before it truly began.
Crawford survived a life-threatening incident that year. He got shot in the head after a game of dice, an event he recounted:
"I got shot in the head in 2008, after playing dice. The bullet bounced off my skull and fell off."
Remarkably, Crawford drove himself to the hospital. His initial reaction was one of fury:
"I was furious, I didn't think about anything but revenge. I wanted to find the guy and kill him."
However, Crawford soon realized that revenge wouldn't solve anything. Instead, he channeled his energy into boxing, increasing his dedication to the sport.
Crawford's commitment to his community shines through his actions. After visiting Rwanda with a former teacher, he opened a free gym, B&B; Boxing Academy, in his childhood neighborhood. Crawford's aim? To offer local kids the same opportunity he had to escape street life through boxing.
Despite his success in the ring, Crawford's career hasn't been as active as some might expect. A recent Netflix documentary, released before his fight with Canelo, shed light on this. Crawford explained that his seven children are the reason for his infrequent fights, as he prioritizes time with his family.
Crawford's background adds context to his achievements. Raised among gangs and expelled from every school he entered, he's overcome significant obstacles to reach the top of his sport. His former promoter, Bob Arum, even compared him to Sugar Ray Leonard.
Even as his career approaches its twilight, Crawford continues to push himself. He recently became the new super middleweight champion, adding to his impressive list of accomplishments across five weight categories.
Crawford's story serves as a reminder that success often comes from overcoming adversity. While he may not have exploited his image like other great boxers, his dedication to his craft and his community sets him apart. As Crawford approaches 38, his legacy in boxing is secure, even if it's not always given the recognition it deserves.
