Terence Crawford has formally vacated the IBF super middleweight title following his retirement, the sanctioning body confirmed this week.
IBF confirms title vacancy
The International Boxing Federation said it received confirmation on December 23 that Crawford had withdrawn from competition, leading to the belt being declared vacant. The organization will now move to identify the two highest available contenders and order negotiations for the title.
Crawford’s exit from the division ends a brief reign at 168 pounds. He captured the title earlier this year after defeating Saul “Canelo” Alvarez via unanimous decision on September 13 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. He did not make a defense before announcing his retirement.
IBF mandatory photo taking shape
The IBF belt is the latest Crawford title to be vacated. The WBO confirmed earlier this month that Crawford had also relinquished his championship. The WBC previously removed him from his title position after he refused to pay sanction fees. The WBA has yet to issue a formal statement on the status of his belt.
Within the IBF rankings, undefeated contender Osley Iglesias is currently positioned as the leading available challenger. Behind him are Alvarez and Jaime Munguia, although Alvarez is recovering from elbow surgery and is not expected to return until May.
Super middleweight division restored
Several other contenders remain active on the sanctioning body’s rankings as the super middleweight division adjusts following Crawford’s departure.
Crawford retires as a five-division world champion and one of the most decorated fighters of the modern era, holding titles from lightweight to super middleweight.
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Last updated on 24/12/2025
