Renowned boxing champion Terence Crawford has expressed admiration for the dynamics of mixed martial arts (MMA). Known as "Bud," Crawford is celebrated for his undefeated record and historical achievements in boxing. Despite this, he acknowledges a significant difference between MMA and boxing that impacts how athletes are perceived by fans and media. In a recent conversation with former UFC champions Kamaru Usman and Henry Cejudo, Crawford highlighted the unique way MMA fighters retain support even after experiencing defeats.

The perception of failure within boxing has shifted dramatically since Floyd Mayweather's perfect 50-0 career. Crawford noted that today’s boxers face harsh criticism if they lose, often being dismissed as inadequate competitors. This contrasts sharply with MMA, where fighters maintain their fan base regardless of losses. Crawford emphasized that such unwavering support allows MMA athletes to continue flourishing in their careers without undue pressure to remain undefeated. He lamented the current state of boxing, where a single loss can drastically alter an athlete's trajectory and public image. Additionally, he reminisced about the golden era of boxing when fighters would engage in multiple matches against each other, creating legendary trilogies that no longer exist.

Despite his respect for MMA, Crawford seems unlikely to transition into the sport himself. Although raised in a wrestling family and possessing some grappling skills, he declined a $200 million offer to fight Conor McGregor under MMA rules. While there was initial excitement about potentially seeing Crawford in the Octagon, his reluctance stems from apprehension about certain aspects of MMA combat. When humorously asked about facing McGregor, Crawford joked about avoiding kicks, indicating a preference for boxing's traditional format. Ultimately, Crawford's insights underscore the value of resilience and acceptance in sports, highlighting how embracing defeat can foster greater appreciation for athletes' journeys rather than solely focusing on their records. Through this lens, both MMA and boxing have much to learn from one another in celebrating athletic excellence.