Terence Crawford names the greatest boxer in history

Terence Crawford, one of the most dominant fighters of his generation, is already deep in training for what could become one of the biggest fights of his career. The American star is set to take on Mexican icon Saul “Canelo” Alvarez this September in Las Vegas, in a clash that has fans buzzing across the boxing world.

Currently ranked as the third-best boxer in the world by both ESPN and The Ring, Crawford is not only preparing physically but also reflecting on the legends who paved the way before him. In a recent interview, the Nebraska-born champion revealed the fighter he considers the greatest of all time.

And in doing so, Crawford left out iconic names such as Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Rocky Marciano, and Joe Louis — instead singling out one modern-era superstar who, in his eyes, stands above the rest.

Crawford’s pick for the best of all time

Speaking with SecondsOut.com, Crawford didn’t hesitate when asked to identify his choice. “In my opinion, the best boxer in history is Floyd Mayweather. His punching was very powerful. Floyd defeated almost all of his opponents during his professional career,” Crawford said.

For a fighter like Crawford, who prides himself on technical mastery and unbeaten stretches, it comes as little surprise that he would select Mayweather — a man whose defensive genius and precision defined an era.

Floyd Mayweather’s unmatched legacy

Mayweather retired with a perfect record of 50-0, a professional career that spanned from 1996 to 2017. Along the way, he defeated an array of all-time greats, including Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez, and Oscar De La Hoya, cementing his place in history as one of boxing’s most decorated champions.

Beyond the numbers, Mayweather’s impact stretched beyond the ring. His defensive brilliance, financial acumen, and ability to command global attention helped reshape the sport in the modern era. For many — including Terence Crawford — “Money” Mayweather’s legacy remains untouchable.