Terence Crawford splits ways with Top Rank!
Ahead of WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford’s (38-0, 29 KO’s) fifth title defense against Shawn Porter, there were high expectations. Who knew that the bout would go above and beyond the call of duty during and after the prizefight? This is because the action was classic, Crawford became the first to stop Showtime, Porter announced his retirement and Bud parted ways with his long time promotional outfit, Top Rank!
“I’m pretty sure that my decision is made already. Bob [Arum] couldn’t secure me the Spence fight when I was with him, so how he going to secure the Spence fight if I am not with him. So I am moving forward with my career right now and I wish everybody the best.”
WBO welterweight champion Terence Crawford
Crawford veering away from Top Rank does make sense. First and foremost, the powerful company was never able to sign any of the major marquee bouts that Crawford has sought out. Even worse, the Nebraska native has had very public discord with Top Rank for some time. Top Rank founder and top dog Bob Arum went so far as to say he didn’t care if Crawford remained with the organization or sought greener pastures elsewhere.
This announcement is very exciting, though. Clearly most will believe that Crawford is about to make his way to the PBC. That is a logical choice since he is still desirous of the Spence bout and that’s where he is shacked up. Yet, Bud may go the Canelo and Devin Haney route and remain a free agent for a while. In any event, until he declares who he plans to link up with next, all eyes will be on Crawford to learn his next major move.
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By: Bakari Simpson
