Let’s face it, we all knew Terence Crawford would get the win over a rugged and game yet outclassed David Avanesyan, 29-4-1(14). The fight, which marked Crawford’s sole ring appearance of 2022, breaking a far too long and, for his fans as well as for his considerable skills, wholly unacceptable 13-month inactive spell, was a mismatch. Even for a somewhat rusty Crawford.
Crawford did however give us a highlight reel knockout when he took care of Avanesyan. “Bud” landed a left uppercut-right hook combo in round six, the defending WBO welterweight champ’s handy work leaving the challenger flat out on his back for some time. It might have been Crawford’s most chilling KO. Now a perfect 39-0(30), the 35 year old Crawford had everyone marvelling over his power and accuracy, for a while – before talk inevitably turned to “what next for Crawford?”
It’s no secret the fight the whole of the boxing world wants is that unification showdown between Crawford and Errol Spence, but Crawford didn’t even mention his all too obvious ring rival by name last night. Instead, Crawford spoke about being a “free agent,”, one who signed on for a “one-shot deal” with BLK Prime (to the tune of a sweet $10 million payday), adding how “hopefully we can make these big bouts in the future.”
Crawford Vs. Spence is the big fight. But the clock is ticking. Crawford’s amazing skills will eventually start to fade. Crawford will not be immune to the aging process and Father Time. It would be a shame if he retired without having fought Spence. Crawford did say before last night’s fight that he is not looking to stick around long enough to break Floyd Mayweather’s 50-0 ledger, with the pound-for-pounder saying he will retire when the time is right, rather than have boxing retire him.
Crawford’s boxing career is not over yet. Crawford gave us, his sport and himself, a highlight reel KO last evening. Now, Crawford’s career needs that highlight opponent, that career-highlight fight/performance. Crawford still needs his defining fight, even after all these years.