October 4, 2024 — In a move that has surprised many fight fans, Omaha boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford has officially turned down a proposed two-fight deal against Conor McGregor, dashing hopes of a megafight between two of the most recognizable names in combat sports.
Crawford Shuts Down Conor McGregor Matchup
Talks of a potential crossover matchup between Crawford—the reigning undisputed welterweight boxing champion—and McGregor, the former UFC double champion, had generated considerable buzz. However, Crawford was quick to dismiss the idea, citing that a bout with McGregor does not align with his career goals.
“I’m focused on defending my titles and securing legacy-defining fights,” Crawford said, further explaining that the proposed deal with McGregor didn’t offer anything significant for his boxing journey. Despite the financial allure of a McGregor matchup, Crawford remains dedicated to challenging top-tier boxers in his division.
A Missed Opportunity for McGregor?
For Conor McGregor, who has famously crossed over into boxing before in his blockbuster fight against Floyd Mayweather in 2017, a showdown with Crawford would have marked his return to the boxing ring. However, with Crawford rejecting the fight, McGregor’s future boxing ambitions remain unclear. Fans are left wondering whether McGregor will continue to pursue fights in both MMA and boxing or focus solely on his UFC comeback.
What’s Next for Both Fighters?
With the McGregor-Crawford megafight off the table, both athletes now look ahead to their respective futures. Crawford is expected to defend his welterweight crown against top contenders, while McGregor, who has recently hinted at a UFC return, may continue to eye high-profile opportunities in both combat sports.
Despite the excitement generated by the initial talks, it seems fight fans will have to wait for another opportunity to witness a McGregor crossover event in the boxing world.