Undefeated Legend Terence “Bud” Crawford

Launches Ambitious U.S. - Japan Boxing Promotion!

(May 14th) Terence “Bud” Crawford, one of the most accomplished fighters in boxing history, has officially embarked on the next chapter of his Hall of Fame career. The retired undefeated champion signed a contract on Thursday to launch a new U.S., Japan boxing promotion based in Japan, partnering with Nagoya gym operator Gen Matsuda and Japanese combat sports star Ren Hiramoto.

Born on September 28, 1987, in Omaha, Crawford compiled a flawless 42-0 professional record with 31 knockouts during a remarkable career that spanned from 2008 to 2025. A switch-hitting southpaw celebrated for his ring IQ, adaptability, speed, and concussive power, Crawford became one of the most decorated fighters of the modern era. He captured world titles in five weight classes—lightweight, light welterweight, welterweight, light middleweight, and super middleweight—and stands alone as the only male boxer in the four-belt era to become undisputed champion in three divisions.

Crawford first unified the entire 140-pound division in 2017, then cemented his legacy at welterweight with his dominant victory over Errol Spence Jr. in 2023 to claim the undisputed 147-pound championship. He capped his legendary career in September 2025 by defeating Saúl 'Canelo' Álvarez by unanimous decision at Allegiant Stadium to capture the undisputed super middleweight crown, becoming the first male boxer to win undisputed championships in three weight classes. Crawford announced his retirement in December 2025 at age 38.

Now, just five months after stepping away from the ring, Crawford is transitioning into boxing promotion with an ambitious international venture designed to strengthen the sport’s ties between the United States and Japan. Footage of the signing ceremony circulated widely on social media, showing Crawford seated alongside Matsuda at a press conference in Japan.

Gen Matsuda operates the Matsuda Boxing Gym in Nagoya and promotes the “SOUL FIGHTING” boxing series at Nagoya Kinjofuto Arena. The gym has developed several notable Japanese prospects, including Otoya Inuzuka and Rento Miyazawa.

Ren Hiramoto, 27, is one of Japan’s most recognizable combat sports figures. A featherweight competitor for Rizin Fighting Federation, Hiramoto first rose to prominence as the runner-up in a K-1 lightweight tournament before building a substantial following in both kickboxing and mixed martial arts.

Crawford and Hiramoto were seen training together earlier this month, with videos of the two engaging in a spirited shadow-boxing face-off generating considerable attention from fans on both sides of the Pacific.

According to Crawford’s remarks at the launch press conference, the promotion will focus on bringing American fighters to Japan while further elevating Japan’s status as one of boxing’s premier markets. He also praised Japan’s pound-for-pound superstar Naoya Inoue, stating his belief that “The Monster” has the talent to capture a world title in a fifth weight class at featherweight.

Japan’s influence in global boxing continues to grow, driven by the enormous commercial success of major domestic events and the international prominence of champions such as Inoue and Junto Nakatani.

Crawford’s move into promotion reflects the same ambition and strategic mindset that defined his extraordinary career. From becoming the undisputed king of three divisions to retiring undefeated as one of the sport’s all-time greats, Crawford has already secured his place among boxing immortals. Now, with Matsuda and Hiramoto as partners, “Bud” is set to help shape the next generation of fighters and deepen the connection between two of boxing’s most passionate nations.