Terence Crawford’s shocking retirement throws super middleweight division into uncertainty, forcing World Boxing Organization to order purse bid

The super middleweight division has entered a confusing new phase. Stability briefly returned when Terence Crawford defeated Canelo Alvarez and took control of the 168-pound division. However, that moment did not last long. Crawford’s sudden retirement left the weight class without clear leadership. With two of boxing’s biggest stars away, the division now depends heavily on sanctioning bodies to restore order.

The latest development shows just how unsettled things have become. The World Boxing Organization has stepped in after talks collapsed between two leading contenders. Hamzah Sheeraz and Diego Pacheco were ordered to negotiate for the vacant WBO title. When no deal was reached, the WBO moved to the next step, forcing the fight toward a purse bid.

World Boxing Organization steps in as Hamzah Sheeraz and Diego Pacheco's talks collapse

The WBO confirmed the decision through an official notice. “Purse Bid Notice- Vacant WBO Super Middleweight Championship Contest Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Diego Pacheco,” the announcement stated. WBO president Gustavo Olivieri explained the situation clearly. He said, “As the parties have been unable to reach an agreement within the allotted time, the (WBO) will proceed with purse bid proceedings, in accordance with its regulations.”

The purse bid is scheduled for Monday, January 19, at the WBO headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The organization has set a minimum bid of $300,000. Details about the fight date, venue, and broadcast will be decided later, once the bidding process is complete.

The order to negotiate was first issued on December 22. Both fighters were given 20 days to reach an agreement. Sheeraz entered talks as a highly ranked contender across multiple sanctioning bodies. He is ranked No. 2 by the WBC, No. 4 by the WBA, and No. 5 by the IBF. Pacheco also holds strong rankings, sitting No. 6 with the WBC, No. 9 with the WBA, and No. 8 with the IBF.

Sheeraz, promoted by Queensberry Promotions, has had a strong run. He recently fought Carlos Adames for the WBC middleweight title and later delivered a major performance by knocking out Edgar Berlanga in a non-title bout at super middleweight. Pacheco, promoted by Matchroom Boxing, remained unbeaten last year. He extended his perfect record to 25 wins with three unanimous decision victories.

The bigger picture shows a division still searching for direction. Canelo Alvarez remains sidelined following elbow surgery, with a possible return targeted for September. Terence Crawford’s retirement and the WBC stripping him for nonpayment of fees only added to the chaos. At present, WBA champion Jose Resendiz stands as the only confirmed titleholder at 168 pounds.

With multiple belts vacant and top names absent, the Sheeraz vs. Pacheco fight could help define the next chapter. For now, the super middleweight division waits for order to emerge from uncertainty.

Also Read: Terence Crawford net worth 2025: The unbeaten American boxer’s career earnings, investments, and more

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