Terence Crawford Puts WBC on Blast After Getting Stripped Over Sanction Fees

Terence Crawford goes off on the WBC after being stripped off his super middleweight belt due to sanctioning payment failures.

Terence Crawford Puts WBC on Blast After Getting Stripped Over Sanction Fees

Terence Crawford lashes out at WBC (via Bog Fight Weekend)

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A major upheaval has hit the super-middleweight division after the World Boxing Council (WBC) stripped Terence Crawford of its super-middleweight world title. The decision came after the WBC determined that Crawford failed to pay required sanctioning fees for recent fights, including his high-profile September bout against Canelo Alvarez.

Crawford had entered the division with historic momentum after becoming undisputed at multiple weight classes. His win over Alvarez unified all four major super-middleweight belts, placing him among the sport’s most accomplished active fighters. The September event drew global attention due to the stakes surrounding the title. Crawford’s victory marked one of boxing’s biggest moments of the year.

However, the WBC reported that sanctioning fees stemming from his championship bout were not submitted, despite the figure being significantly reduced from standard rates. The organization stated that several notices were sent, but no acknowledgment was received. This administrative standoff escalated into a full-scale dispute. It ultimately led ‘Bud’ to deliver a strong public rant toward the WBC.

Who the **** you think I am? I ain’t paying your *******. You can take the ******* belt. I’m the *********** putting my life on the line, not you. Why should I have to pay to carry your belt? You should be paying me! I’m still the champion. Can’t take that away from me. History already been made, baby. I am legend.

Terence Crawford via X

With the victory over Alvarez, Crawford became the first male fighter of the four-belt era to claim undisputed titles in three separate weight divisions. The achievement elevated him from a generational standout to a historic multi-division champion. He has also beaten elite opponents such as Errol Spence Jr., Shawn Porter, and Kell Brook. These victories further solidified his status among the sport’s elite.

Crawford’s financial profile also surged after the Alvarez fight, pushing his estimated net worth toward the $30 million range. His reported payout for the event reached eight figures, with some estimates projecting totals far higher after bonuses. The fight generated more than 41 million global streams, becoming the most-watched men’s championship match of the era.

Following the title’s removal, the WBC moved quickly to reshape the division by ordering interim champion Christian Mbilli and Hamzah Sheeraz to compete for the vacant belt. The matchup will determine the organization’s next super-middleweight champion. However, Terence Crawford now awaits clarity on his standing as the division resets around new challengers.

WBC President details the reason behind Terence Crawford being stripped of his title

Terence Crawford is widely regarded as one of boxing’s most disciplined champions and has remained undefeated throughout his career. Holding a professional record of 41–0, he has dominated every opponent since making his debut in 2008. His consistency across weight classes solidified his reputation as one of the most reliable performers. This background made the stripping of his WBC title especially notable.

Terence Crawford
Terence Crawford (via Boxing Scene)

The sanctioning fee for Crawford’s fight with Canelo Alvarez was reduced from the standard 3% to 0.6%, lowering the amount to approximately $300,000. Despite the reduction, the WBC stated that no payment or acknowledgment was received from the Nebraska native’s camp. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman recently detailed the primary reason behind removing Crawford’s title.

He did not comply with the rules. Then he moves up to super middleweight and makes the fight of the century, makes $50 million or around that. The WBC absolutely is not going to charge 3% of such an amount, we made a very clear 0.6% which is $300,000, $225,000 goes to boxers fund which is to help former fighters in need and it is just regrettable, not even a thank you or “I’m sorry”, no response. I wish him the best.

Mauricio Sulaiman via Boxing Scene

Terence Crawford’s situation highlights the broader stakes in boxing, where administrative obligations can alter even the careers of dominant, undefeated champions. The loss of the WBC belt reshapes the landscape at super-middleweight and opens the door for new contenders. Yet Crawford remains one of the division’s most accomplished active fighters.

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