From Omaha Streets to Boxing Greatness: Crawford’s Message of Resilience
Undefeated four-division world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford delivered a powerful commencement address Friday at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, sharing hard-earned wisdom from his journey from troubled youth to boxing royalty. Speaking to graduates at Baxter Arena, the Omaha native drew parallels between the discipline required in the ring and the determination needed to succeed in life.
The Fighter’s Mentality
Crawford emphasized the fighting spirit inherent in Omaha natives. “Being from Omaha means you’re a fighter,” he told the crowd. “That’s two things we have in common. I was a fighter before I became a boxer. I was a competitor before I put on the gloves.” The boxing champion explained that he accepted the speaking invitation because he values being around others who embrace challenges.
Overcoming Adversity: Crawford’s Personal Journey
The champion boxer recounted his difficult path to success:
- Expelled from five different schools for fighting as a teenager
- Survived multiple gunshot wounds, including one to the head
- Found mentors who believed in his potential when he didn’t believe in himself
“You control your own destiny,” Crawford asserted. “You get to determine your greatness. You have everything you need to be a champion.”
When Life Punches Back
Crawford quoted boxing legend Mike Tyson’s famous words – “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face” – and applied them to life’s challenges. He described common setbacks graduates might face:
- Job interviews that don’t lead to offers
- Failed relationships despite initial connections
- Financial investments that don’t pan out
“The way to respond is to keep working and not waste time,” Crawford advised. He pointed to the UNO basketball team’s recent success as proof that ignoring naysayers pays off.
The Champion’s Mindset: Never Settle
Even after achieving world champion status, Crawford refused to become complacent. He revealed:
- His upcoming September 13 fight against Canelo Alvarez for a fifth division title
- How he avoided the traps of fame and materialism that derailed other athletes
- His commitment to continuous growth rather than resting on past accomplishments
“There always is going to be someone with a faster car, a bigger house, more expensive clothes,” Crawford noted. “Real fulfillment comes from somewhere else. Don’t be satisfied, ever.”
Giving Back to the Next Generation
The 37-year-old champion discussed his post-boxing plans, including expanding his B&B Sports Academy in north Omaha. The youth center uses sports to teach discipline, confidence and healthy habits to at-risk children.
“There are a lot of kids growing up just like me — rough neighborhoods, no guidance, nobody to look up to,” Crawford said. “I want to be a light for them and show them what’s possible. I’m challenging you all today to do the same.”
Final Charge to Graduates
Crawford closed his address by reminding graduates of their shared identity: “Remember where you come from. Remember you are a fighter.” His message underscored that the same determination that carried him from Omaha’s streets to boxing’s pinnacle could propel the graduates to success in their chosen fields.
The boxer’s appearance came as he prepares for his September super middleweight title fight in Las Vegas, where he will attempt to become a five-division world champion – yet another goal in an career defined by breaking barriers and defying expectations.