Author: Sean Close
After triumphing over Errol Spence this past summer, Terrence Crawford felt like the undisputed welterweight world champion. However, the IBF has now stripped Crawford of his welterweight belt, leaving him with only three of the four world titles. This means that Crawford is no longer indisputable.
According to IBF rules, Crawford was required to have a mandatory match, which did not happen in a timely manner. As a result, the IBF removed the belt from Crawford. However, it is suggested that he was unable to fulfill his IBF obligations due to contractual commitments for a rematch with Spence. There is also speculation that Crawford may not be interested in the IBF belt and could be considering moving up to junior middleweight for a rematch with Spence. Despite losing the IBF title, Crawford’s reputation is strong, with many analysts considering him the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
The IBF title is now held by rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis, who is considered a future standout in the sport. Ennis, undefeated and possessing an exciting ring style, became the interim IBF welterweight champion without having to fight for the title. While it appears that Ennis is a formidable opponent, the outcome of future bouts, possibly against Crawford or Spence, remains to be seen.
