Full Breakdown
Terence Crawford Stripped of WBC Super Middleweight Title
12/4/2025, 6:15:05 AM
Overview of the Title Stripping
On December 3, 2025, the World Boxing Council (WBC) announced that Terence Crawford had been stripped of his WBC super middleweight title due to non-payment of sanctioning fees. Crawford, who became the undisputed champion by defeating Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez on September 13, 2025, had failed to pay the required fees for his last two fights, including the bout against Álvarez, which reportedly earned him $50 million.
Details of the Sanctioning Fees Dispute
The WBC had modified its standard sanctioning fee from 3% to 0.6% of Crawford's purse, amounting to approximately $300,000. This fee was intended to support the José Sulaimán Boxers Fund, which provides humanitarian aid to fighters in need. Despite multiple communications from the WBC to Crawford and his team, there was no acknowledgment or response, leading the organization to take action.
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman expressed disappointment over the situation, stating, "It is very unfortunate that the WBC did not even receive an acknowledgment of receipt nor anything in response to any of those communications." He described Crawford's actions as a "slap in the face" to the organization.
Implications for the Super Middleweight Division
With Crawford's title now vacant, the WBC has mandated a fight between British contender Hamzah Sheeraz (22-1, 18 KOs) and Canada's Christian Mbilli (29-0-1, 24 KOs) for the now-available championship. This matchup is anticipated to be a significant event in the boxing calendar, with both fighters boasting impressive records and the potential to become the next champion.
Official Statements & Responses
The WBC's formal statement highlighted the organization's efforts to communicate with Crawford, emphasizing that he had received ample notification and opportunities to resolve the issue. Sulaiman noted, "The WBC had no choice but to act, considering Champion Crawford had received ample notification and multiple opportunities to address and resolve the situation."
In contrast, Crawford responded to the WBC's claims with a defiant message on social media, stating, "I ain't paying your ass sh*t," and questioning the legitimacy of the WBC's fees compared to other sanctioning bodies. He further criticized the WBC's practices, suggesting that the organization prioritizes its own interests over those of the fighters.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the WBC's fee structure argue that the high costs associated with sanctioning fees can be burdensome for fighters, particularly when they are already facing significant financial pressures. Some observers have pointed out that the requirement for fighters to pay such fees raises questions about the fairness and transparency of the boxing industry.
What's Next for Terence Crawford?
Following the loss of his WBC title, Crawford's future in boxing remains uncertain. He still holds the WBA, IBF, and WBO titles but has hinted at a potential move back down to middleweight. Speculation surrounds possible matchups, including a rematch with Canelo Álvarez or a fight against Janibek Alimkhanuly, who is currently embroiled in a controversy over a positive drug test.
As the boxing community awaits the outcome of the Sheeraz vs. Mbilli fight, Crawford's next steps will be closely monitored, as he seeks to reclaim his status as one of the sport's top competitors.
