SHOCKING: Terence Crawford Fails Drug Test – Canelo Demands Title Be Stripped!

In a stunning turn of events that has rocked the boxing world, Terence “Bud” Crawford, fresh off his historic victory over Saul “Canelo” Álvarez on September 13, 2025, reportedly failed a post-fight drug test, prompting Canelo to demand that the newly acquired super middleweight titles be stripped from him. The bombshell revelation, announced on September 15, 2025, at 4:00 PM PST (5:00 AM EDT) by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, has sent shockwaves through the sport, casting doubt on Crawford’s legacy and sparking a fierce debate over fairness and integrity in boxing. Canelo’s fiery response has only added fuel to the controversy, setting the stage for potential legal and professional clashes.

The Historic Fight

On September 13, 2025, Terence Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs) made history by defeating Canelo Alvarez (63-3-2, 39 KOs) via unanimous decision (116-112, 115-113, 115-113) at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, claiming the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF, and Ring Magazine titles. The fight, watched by a record 70,482 fans and millions on Netflix, saw Crawford outbox the Mexican superstar with superior speed and precision, becoming the first male boxer to hold undisputed titles in three weight classes in the four-belt era. However, the celebration was short-lived as news of Crawford’s failed drug test emerged.

The Failed Drug Test

According to a statement from the Nevada State Athletic Commission, Crawford tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance in a routine post-fight drug test conducted immediately after the bout. While the specific substance has not been revealed pending further analysis, sources close to the commission told ESPN that it is a “serious violation” that could lead to severe sanctions, including suspension and title forfeiture. The news broke just 48 hours after the fight, leaving fans and analysts, who had hailed Crawford’s performance as a career-defining moment, stunned.

The Commission is awaiting results from Crawford’s “B sample,” which will be tested within 72 hours. If confirmed, the violation could result in the fight being ruled a no-contest, with Crawford’s titles stripped according to regulations from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and boxing. This marks the first major scandal in Crawford’s otherwise flawless career, raising questions about the validity of his victory over Canelo.

Canelo’s Indignant Demand

Canelo Alvarez, already vocal about perceived dirty tactics in the fight, wasted no time responding to the news. In a fiery post on X at 5:16 AM EDT on September 15, 2025, Canelo wrote: “I knew something was wrong! Crawford cheated to win, and now the truth is out.” During an emergency press conference in Las Vegas, Canelo doubled down, saying: “This is an embarrassment for the sport. I fought clean, gave everything, and he used drugs to beat me. Those belts belong to me. The fans deserve better.”

Canelo’s team has formally requested that the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF annul Crawford’s titles and restore him as the champion. “We are exploring all legal options,” said Canelo’s promoter, Eddie Hearn. “If the B sample confirms this, it’s a black mark on boxing.” Canelo’s accusations have sparked a frenzy on social media, with #stripcrawford trending worldwide, accumulating over 5 million engagements. One user posted: “Canelo was robbed! Crawford is a fraud #Justiceforcanelo,” while another defended Crawford, writing: “Wait for the B sample. Bud has been clean his whole career #TeamCrawford.”

Crawford’s Camp Responds

Crawford’s team issued a brief statement denying any wrongdoing, calling the test result a “misunderstanding” and expressing confidence in the B sample analysis. “Terence Crawford has always been a clean fighter and has passed all the tests in his career,” said his manager, Brian McIntyre, to BoxingScene. “We are fully cooperating and expect to be cleared.” Crawford himself has not commented directly but a source close to him told The Athletic that he is “devastated” by the allegations and insists he did not knowingly take any banned substance.

The controversy has sparked speculation about accidental contamination, a common defense in doping cases, or possible sabotage. Crawford’s camp pointed to his clean record in 42 professional fights and rigorous testing throughout his career. However, skeptics on X pointed out the timing, with one user posting: “Crawford jumps two weight classes and beats Canelo? Now this? Smells like #BoxingScandal.”

The Boxing Community Reacts

The scandal has divided the boxing world. Analyst Timothy Bradley Jr., who called the fight for ESPN, expressed his shock, saying: “If this is true, it tarnishes a historic moment. Crawford’s legacy is on the line.” Former champion Andre Ward urged caution, stating: “Let’s wait for the full investigation. False positives happen.” On X, fans are polarized, with some calling for Crawford’s suspension and others defending his character. “Canelo is just bitter he lost. Bud is the real champion #innocent,” read one tweet.

The involvement of Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh, who funded the fight, has also attracted scrutiny. Some users on X speculated about political motives, writing: “The Saudi money wanted Crawford to win. Now this? Too convenient #rigged.” Others dismissed such claims, highlighting Alalshikh’s role in securing Canelo a $100 million purse.

What’s Next for Boxing?

The Nevada State Athletic Commission has promised a transparent investigation, with B sample results expected by September 18, 2025. If the violation is confirmed, Crawford could face a suspension of up to two years, a fine, and loss of his titles, potentially triggering a rematch or title vacancy. The WBA, which stripped Crawford of his 154-pound title before the fight, may elevate interim champion Abass Baraou to full champion in that division, further complicating the landscape.

Canelo, meanwhile, is pushing for immediate action. “I want my belts back,” he said to Sports Illustrated. “This isn’t just about me, it’s about cleaning up boxing.” Promoters are already discussing a possible rematch, with Netflix eyeing another potential blockbuster, but the outcome depends on the investigation. The scandal has also reignited calls for stricter doping protocols, with fans and analysts demanding year-round testing.

A Legacy in Jeopardy

Terence Crawford’s failed drug test and Canelo Alvarez’s demand for his titles have plunged boxing into chaos, threatening to overshadow one of the sport’s greatest moments. As the world awaits the B sample results, the debate rages on in X, gyms, and airwaves: Is Crawford a cheat, or is this a tragic misunderstanding? With Canelo promising to reclaim his legacy and Crawford fighting to clear his name, this scandal could reshape the future of boxing. Stay tuned for updates as this explosive story develops.