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Terence Crawford, a boxing icon with an undefeated 40-0 record, recently opened up about why he turned down the chance to face Conor McGregor in an MMA fight. Despite the buzz surrounding the potential clash, Crawford made it clear that stepping into the octagon wasn’t in his plans.
Known for holding titles across four weight classes, Crawford currently reigns as the WBA and interim WBO super welterweight champion. On the other hand, McGregor, the former UFC lightweight champion, had only one boxing bout on his resume – a high-profile loss to Floyd Mayweather in 2017. The idea of a two-fight series, one in boxing and one in MMA, stirred plenty of speculation. However, Crawford put an end to those talks.
“I told Conor to himself; I said, ‘Hell no,’” Crawford revealed in an interview with Bernie Tha Boxer.
While conversations with McGregor did take place, Crawford wasn’t willing to dive into the world of mixed martial arts.
"I just told him, ‘Man, I’m not getting in no f*cking octagon with you so you can be kicking me and elbowing me.’ And he started laughing,” Crawford added.
McGregor appreciated the honesty, and understanding of the immense differences between the two sports.
While Crawford acknowledged that the fight could have generated significant revenue, he wasn’t swayed.
“He was like, ‘But we’ll make a sh*t ton of money!’" Crawford recounted with a laugh. "I said, ‘Yeah, sometimes it ain’t about the money.’”
Crawford knows his value in the boxing world and wasn’t ready to risk injury or compromise his legacy for a one-time MMA venture.
With his sights still set on boxing, Crawford’s next challenge could involve securing more titles at 154 pounds. He’s hinted at a possible fight with Sebastian Fundora, which could bring him closer to unifying the division.
Meanwhile, McGregor hasn’t stepped into the cage since July 2021, leaving fans in suspense about his return. While both fighters remain dominant in their respective arenas, Crawford’s decision underscores his commitment to boxing.
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