Wed Dec 03 11:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Crawford Stripped of WBC Title Over Unpaid Fees Despite Record-Breaking Win

LAS VEGAS – Just months after his historic victory over Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez, Terence Crawford has been stripped of his WBC Super Middleweight title due to a dispute over unpaid sanctioning fees. The WBC announced the decision yesterday, citing Crawford’s failure to pay the required boxer’s bout fees for his fights against Israil Madrimov and, crucially, his undisputed title win against Álvarez on September 13, 2025.

Crawford’s victory against Álvarez, which earned him the WBC, WBO, IBF, and WBA titles, marked a significant moment in boxing history. The bout reportedly netted Crawford a massive $50 million. Recognizing the magnitude of the payday, the WBC had already lowered its standard 3% sanctioning fee to 0.6% for the fight. The WBC planned to allocate 75% of Crawford’s fee to the José Sulaimán Boxers Fund, a charity providing humanitarian aid to boxers worldwide.

Despite multiple attempts to contact Crawford, his manager, and his legal counsel, the WBC claims they received no acknowledgment or response. This lack of communication left the organization with “no choice” but to take action, according to a statement released by the WBC.

The José Sulaimán Boxers Fund has a long history of supporting fighters in need, providing financial and medical assistance. Recent beneficiaries include Iran Barkley, currently battling cancer, and the late Vanes Martirosyan. The WBC emphasized their commitment to the fund and the importance of fighters fulfilling their financial obligations.

While the WBC did not specify the exact amount owed, the stripping of Crawford’s title sends a strong message about the organization’s commitment to enforcing its rules and ensuring the financial well-being of the boxing community. The decision leaves the WBC Super Middleweight title vacant, and the future of the division hangs in the balance. It also raises questions about Crawford’s next move and whether he will address the WBC’s concerns.

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