Terence Crawford Receives Major Honor Before Canelo Alvarez Showdown, Fans Shower Congratulations

Terence Crawford has added yet another accomplishment to his resume. Only this time, the feat occurred outside the ring. The University of Nebraska in Omaha honored the four-division world champion with the inaugural ‘Spirit of the Maverick Award.‘ Crawford received the laurel for his community outreach. His nonprofit gym, the B&B Sports Academy, has played a key role in keeping children out of trouble.

It’s a big achievement for boxing’s first two-division undisputed champion. Crawford’s list of accolades has been increasing by leaps and bounds. Especially given that he is now four months away from what’s possibly the biggest fight of his career, such an honor means a lot not only for him but for his community, which has been supporting him as well.

Terence Crawford: Believe in yourself

The Ring Magazine post featured a picture of Terence Crawford standing alongside university officials. Their message read, “The University of Nebraska Omaha honored Terence Crawford with the inaugural Spirit of the Maverick award after giving a commencement speech earlier this week .” Additionally, Crawford delivered the keynote address at the Baxter Arena to over 2000 odd students. “We all have greatness in us. We try to be like others, and it alters our greatness. Just be real, be true, be true to yourself, and keep working. Keep being a fighter,” said the world champion at Omaha’s Spring 2025 Commencement ceremony.

The University of Nebraska Omaha honored Terence Crawford with the inaugural Spirit of the Maverick award after giving a commencement speech earlier this week

The award was given to him by the university for the work he does keeping kids out of trouble through his Omaha-based… pic.twitter.com/7F7csYMv9Q

— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) May 21, 2025

Terence Crawford shared his own experience with doubt and discouragement. He illustrated how he overcame stereotypes and low expectations, encouraging the graduates to own their identity and be proud of their roots, no matter how others perceive them.

Let’s check what some of the fans had to say.

A timeless example of dedication and heart

For this fan, the writing on the wall couldn’t have been clearer. They said, “He’s definitely beating Canelo…” In Riyadh, as Crawford faced him, initial worries about Canelo Alvarez‘s overwhelming physical superiority over Crawford gradually receded from view.

Though a challenger, it appears that the big showdown may have opened quite a few doors for Crawford. “He’s fighting Canelo next, and here come the best opportunities for him,” said this user. Naturally, fighting one of the faces of boxing has its perks. Win or lose, the fight is poised to become the decade’s biggest showdown. With that, Crawford’s stature is bound to increase.

Boxen: 62nd WBC Annual Convention, Gala Dinner, Hamburg, 09.12.2024 Terence Crawford *** Boxing 62nd WBC Annual Convention, Gala Dinner, Hamburg, 09 12 2024 Terence Crawford

But a few saw what many others have asserted before. “Terence Crawford is an elite boxer & an elite human being,” this fan said. One should watch out for Crawford’s interview. Unlike many fighters, he speaks eloquently and is able to transfer his thoughts in a very clear manner. It’s a gift few possess.

Likewise, for this fan, Crawford walks the talk: “Bud not talking about it; he is about it. Good job, Bud, and great work.” While he may want to become the greatest boxer of this era, Crawford hasn’t forgotten his roots and duties to the community.

One more vote of confidence: “He finna shock the world.” Though he’s two years older and climbing up two weight classes, Crawford has the skill and the will to stage a huge upset in September.

With one more feather in his cap, Terence Crawford continues to inspire.

If he succeeds in inflicting a third professional loss on Canelo Alvarez, then for sure, Bud Crawford will go down in history as an all-time great. What’s even more significant is that, in addition to chasing a ring legacy, he’s working hard to leave a positive impact on the community.

Where do you place Terence Crawford on your all-time greatest list?

The post Terence Crawford Receives Major Honor Before Canelo Alvarez Showdown, Fans Shower Congratulations appeared first on EssentiallySports.