Terence Crawford Tempted by Conor McGregor’s Huge Two-Fight Deal After UFC Star Reveals Massive Payout
Terence Crawford has opened the door to a potential clash with Conor McGregor after being enticed by the staggering financial figures attached to a two-fight deal. Initially, Crawford, the former undisputed boxing champion, was firm in his stance that no amount of money could persuade him to step into the octagon, fearing the kicks and elbows that come with mixed martial arts.
However, everything changed when McGregor took to social media to announce, “Big respect to @tbudcrawford! $100 million dollars a fight, one MMA, one boxing. That’s $200 million total!” To which Crawford replied, “Tempted.”
McGregor, who famously paused his UFC career in 2017 to face Floyd Mayweather in a lucrative crossover boxing match, is now eyeing a similar opportunity with Crawford. During a recent Duelbits livestream, McGregor highlighted Crawford’s slick boxing style and wrestling background, stating, “They’re always talking to me about bouts. I’ve already boxed a boxer, and the best boxer in MMA is me.”
The conversation around the two-fight deal began after Crawford’s latest victory over Israil Madrimov, where he claimed the WBA super-welterweight world title. This fight marked his first under the promotional wing of Saudi boxing executive Turki Alalshikh, who recently partnered with the UFC.
In recounting his pitch to Crawford, McGregor said, “I called Crawford and told him, ‘They’re talking about you and me in a two-fight deal—MMA first, boxing second.’ I know you’ve got a wrestling pedigree and the heart of a lion. Hundreds of millions are on the line. What’s up?”
Crawford’s initial reaction was clear: “I don’t fancy taking a kick from Conor McGregor,” he admitted. Despite the lucrative offer, he remains cautious about entering the octagon.
McGregor, who hasn’t fought since his leg break in July 2021, also had to pull out of a planned bout against Michael Chandler due to injury. Meanwhile, Crawford is focusing on a potential super-fight against Mexican boxing icon Canelo Alvarez, despite speculation surrounding his retirement.
While Crawford joked about the MMA fight not being an easy decision, he reflected on his discussions with McGregor: “I told Conor, ‘Hell no. I’m not stepping into that octagon with you. I’m not about to let you kick and elbow me.’ He laughed and said, ‘I respect it. You respect my sport like I respect yours, but if you step into the octagon, you’ll be at a disadvantage.’”
Despite their respect for each other’s sports, Crawford remains firm in his stance: “Sometimes it’s not about the money. I can make money, but you’re not about to be kicking me, dude. Kicks and elbows are no joke