Terence Crawford - The humble fighter who wrestles, switch-hits and does the dog!

 

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I love boxing, when I was 15, I took part in boxing, the first time everyone told me not to do it, because the guy I would be facing is ferocious. I had fought the same guy in the dormitory and won, so I wasn't worried. I fought and lost. 

So, I loved the match between Terence Crawford and Canelo (especially the swishes when the blows fly), it's a classic story of David versus Goliath! 

Terence Crawford embodies the essence of resilience and determination, a man who rose from humble beginnings to become one of boxing's elite champions. His story is not just physical prowess but about the mental fortitude (grit) and strategic intelligence that propelled him to the top.

Early Life: Rising from the Dirt

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Crawford faced numerous challenges growing up, especially being in an area known for poverty, crime and violence, facing financial difficulties, being beaten by his mum, who even paid the neighbour's kids to beat him. He was raised in a tough environment, where opportunities were scarce, and the odds were stacked against him. Yet, it was in this adversity that he found his motivation. His motivation was the gym, his coach, Midge Minor, the man who picked him up from school and steered him away from trouble and towards the gym.

Source Midge Minor, Terence's coach

The streets taught him lessons that would later translate into the boxing ring: survival and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

Intelligent Listening: The Key to Success

Crawford's ascent in boxing is marked by his ability to listen and learn. He understood early on that success in the ring required more than just physical strength; it demanded a keen understanding of the sport. He absorbed knowledge from his coaches, mentors, and even his opponents, using their insights to refine his technique and strategy.
 

• Adaptability Crawford's intelligence shines through in his adaptability during fights. He studies his opponents, adjusting his tactics in real-time to exploit weaknesses. This ability to listen and respond has made him a formidable opponent.

Effective Fighting: Mastering the Art of Switch-Hitting and mingling wrestling 

One of Crawford's most notable skills is his switch-hitting ability. He can seamlessly transition between orthodox and southpaw stances, making him unpredictable and difficult to counter. This technique showcases his versatility and strategic thinking, allowing him to control the pace and flow of the fight. His family has a history of great wrestlers and it shows in his boxing style as well as the preference of his children.

Switch-Hitting By switching stances, Crawford confuses his opponents, creating openings for powerful punches. This skill not only demonstrates his technical prowess but also his understanding of the psychological aspects of boxing.
The "Dog" Mentality: Relentless Pursuit of Victory
Crawford's fighting style is often described as having a "dog" mentality—for every blow he received, he gave three, a relentless drive to win, no matter the obstacles. He embodies the spirit of a fighter who refuses to back down, pushing through pain and adversity to achieve his goals.

Tenacity In the ring, Crawford showcases his tenacity through his aggressive yet calculated approach. He engages in fierce exchanges, demonstrating both power and precision, all while maintaining a strategic mindset.

A Champion's Legacy

Terence Crawford's journey from the dirt to the pinnacle of boxing is a testament to his hard work, intelligence, and unwavering determination. He is not just a champion in the ring; he is an inspiration to many who face their own struggles. His story serves as a reminder that with the right mindset, anyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve greatness.

Growth, Family and Humility

Crawford's legacy is built on more than just titles; it is a narrative of resilience, strategic brilliance, and the heart of a true fighter. His humility shines through when he talks about how he take care of his family, setting up a gym for those who just need a safe place (because he got pushed out of his gym  when they wanted to own him) and wondering why Warren Buffett talks to him as an equal.