A group of CBS Sports experts gathered to deliberate and select boxing’s Fighter of the Year. The top honor went to Terrence Crawford.
Crawford’s selection is impressive given he only secured one victory this year, but that win was truly remarkable. At 38, the undefeated Omaha native stepped up three weight divisions from welterweight to face the undisputed super middleweight champion, the Mexican icon Canelo Alvarez. After a 13-month break to bulk up for the 168-pound fight, Crawford seemed smaller but proved to be the quicker and stronger competitor over 12 rounds, earning a unanimous decision. Starting the fight as a southpaw and never switching stance, Crawford controlled the fight’s pace and responded quickly whenever Alvarez threatened, leaving the legendary fighter unable to counter. With this victory, Crawford joined an elite list of five-division champions, including legends like Thomas Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather, and Manny Pacquiao. He also became the first three-division undisputed champion in the four-belt era and a four-division “ring” champion, solidifying his place as the best and most impressive boxer of 2025.
Honorable mentions include:
Naoya Inoue, Japan’s champion and the current pound-for-pound king, who defended his “Ring” title four times this year—matching Larry Holmes’ 1983 feat. The 122-pound undisputed champ showed his power and skill with a knockout of Kim Ye-joong, a comeback win against Ramon Cardenas, and dominant performances over Murodjon Akhmadaliev and David Picasso, showcasing a blend of speed and technique.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, a 25-year-old star from San Antonio, ended the year as a free agent after two impressive victories. He unified the 115-pound titles by defeating the undefeated Phumelara Kahu and later secured the junior bantamweight title twice by outclassing Fernando ‘Puma’ Martinez with smart footwork and a decisive counter left hand.
Lamont Roach Jr. had a mixed year with two controversial majority draws despite strong performances in higher weight classes. He challenged top fighters like Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz, showing resilience and skill, though scorecards didn’t favor him. Roach’s efforts in 2025 helped build his reputation as a tough and adaptable fighter.
Fan Take: Terrence Crawford’s win as Fighter of the Year confirms that exceptional skill and strategic mastery can overshadow the number of fights in a year, highlighting the sport’s appreciation for legendary performances. This recognition not only cements Crawford’s legacy but also inspires fighters to strive for greatness, no matter their age or challenges, promising thrilling matchups for fans ahead.
