World Boxing Council President Calls Terence Crawford “Cowardly” for Retiring Without a Rematch Against Canelo Álvarez

Mauricio Sulaiman sparks controversy by calling Terence Crawford “cowardly” after his undefeated retirement. Fair criticism or out of line? Tension between the WBC and “Bud” reaches a boiling point.

Sulaiman sparks controversy with direct attack on Crawford

The president of the World Boxing Council, Mauricio Sulaimán, stirred major backlash after labeling Terence Crawford as “cowardly” for choosing to retire at the peak of his career.

His comments quickly went viral. During a live stream, Sulaiman discussed potential opponents for Saúl Canelo Álvarez, including a possible rematch with Crawford—but added a controversial remark: “he retired cowardly.”

This marks the first time the WBC president has publicly fired back at Crawford, escalating an already tense relationship between both sides.

A historic retirement… surrounded by tension

What makes the criticism even more shocking is the context: Crawford didn’t walk away in decline—he left on top. The American retired undefeated (42-0) after pulling off a massive upset by defeating Canelo and becoming undisputed champion at 168 pounds.

His legacy was already secured, with titles across multiple divisions and dominance over his era. However, his exit wasn’t without friction.

According to multiple reports, one of the key issues was his dispute with the WBC over sanctioning fees, which Crawford openly criticized as excessive. The disagreement ultimately led to him being stripped of his super middleweight title, further fueling tensions.

The Alimkhanuly factor and the final decision

Another decisive moment came when a potential fight against Janibek Alimkhanuly collapsed after the Kazakh fighter failed a drug test. That situation reportedly ended Crawford’s ambition to chase a sixth weight class title.

“Bud” made his stance clear: there was nothing left to prove. At 38, financially secure, healthy, and with a historic résumé, he chose to step away on his own terms.

This makes Sulaiman’s “cowardly” label even more controversial among fans and analysts, many of whom argue that retiring undefeated after beating the biggest name in boxing is the opposite of weakness.

Strategy, frustration, or out-of-line statement?

Beyond the headlines, Sulaiman’s comments may reflect a deeper shift in boxing’s power structure. According to industry voices, the rise of independent promotions and global mega-events is reshaping the sport.

Crawford’s case represents that shift—a champion choosing legacy and control over organizational expectations.

As for a potential rematch with Canelo, it seems unlikely. Crawford has insisted his retirement is final, shutting the door on any comeback.