The UFC organization is being called everything from insensitive to racist after they aired a broadcast where boxer Terence Crawford was mistaken for famed Compton emcee Kendrick Lamar.
The “Not Like Us” lyricist spit this verse on “Euphoria”, saying, “I’m Terence Crawford, yeah, I’m whooping feet.” Many people laughed at the coincidence of his predictions, but they still launched a campaign accusing the UFC of racism, which is understandable. Crawford and Lamar are in two different forms of entertainment, and no insult to either, but the two personalities do not look alike at all.
What happens in Sin City is supposed to stay there. Well, unless it is broadcasted to millions of viewers around the world. Professional boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford found himself in the middle of a viral joke due to an error by the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Yesterday (September 14), the UFC mistakenly identified Terence Crawford as Kendrick Lamar during the broadcast of the Saul “Canelo” Alvarez vs Edgar Berlanga fight. Those in attendance at T-Mobile Arena might not have caught the flub, but viewers at home sure did.
Immediately after supporters of the “Not Like Us” rapper took to X (formerly Twitter) with an endless amount of meme swapping out Kendrick for Crawford on album covers and more.
In a post shared to Crawford’s official Instagram page (viewable here), he laughed off the misidentification, writing: “Damn, Kendrick Lamar .”
Crawford went on to use Kendrick Lamar’s song “Euphoria” to soundtrack the image captured during the event. Crawford is no stranger to the world of sports (despite the botched identification) having secured several titles in the ring. Nor is Crawford a hip-hop novice. Back in July 2023, Crawford had Eminem perform “Lose Yourself” as his ring walk out track.
Fans now know of Crawford’s lighthearted sense of humor.
The UFC has to answer some odd questions about their broadcast, as they made a major mix-up during a recent match. Moreover, the television stream identified boxer Terence Crawford in the stands as Kendrick Lamar, which understandably resulted in some backlash and racism accusations. What’s more is that it’s possible that this was actually intentional, albeit miscommunicated and confusingly presented. K.Dot actually references Crawford on “euphoria,” which is why many folks online saw this as more of a joke. We might never know for sure, and you will have your opinion on whether it’s insensitive even with this possible intent in mind.
However, it seems like Terence Crawford couldn’t help but laugh at this situation, so it seems like there are no hard feelings. “Damn @kendricklamar [two crying-laughing emojis],” he wrote on his Instagram Story this weekend along with a screenshot of UFC’s mix-up. It played Kendrick Lamar’s “euphoria” verse shouting Terence out in the background. Maybe Crawford and the “Watch The Party Die” MC have a more strong criticism of this practice. But for now, the former is just reacting to the antics and having fun with them.
As far as other Kendrick Lamar news, Usher recently gave him advice for his Super Bowl halftime show. “Everybody has this fifteen minutes of fame idea, but it’s really your fifteen minutes of fame,” the singer remarked on Live with Kelly and Mark. “You have to play hits. You’ve got to get right to it.” “I want no part of that. I’m sorry,” he joked about the possibility of mediating the Drake beef. “Let’s just say, it’s been a great experience to say that I could play the Super Bowl. I understand how much pressure comes with it and I wouldn’t wish it on anybody. But I would wish it on you if you’ve had the career.”
50 Cent agrees, as he called Kendrick Lamar’s battle “good for the culture.” “Both Drake and Kendrick produced quality music faster because they had to compete with each other,” he shared on The Talk. “That competitive nature made them go work and have responses. Hip-hop is still – it’s not just a genre where you can just make a song and sit back. You have to make a song and be ready to make a song again right away with other artists.”
We all know the popular meme these days: between double meanings and bold predictions, Kendrick Lamar is being hailed as a prophet. But did a recent UFC broadcast really have to go to this extreme to make that idea true? Moreover, a recent event saw the television team confuse superstar boxer Terence Crawford for K.Dot. The “Watch The Party Die” lyricist actually had the following line on “euphoria”: “I’m Terence Crawford, yeah, I’m whooping feet.” However, even though a lot of people laughed at this coincidence and manifestation of his predictions, they still launched accusations of racism against the organization, which is understandable.
Maybe we’ll never get an explanation for this viral mishap. Either way, this wasn’t the only recent tinfoil hat reach (that may or may not be true) concerning some of Kendrick Lamar’s latest moves, an unsurprising tendency given all his lyrical depths in his Drake disses and beyond. For example, folks connected his Super Bowl halftime show announcement to his diss tracks, pointing out some of the lyrical nods and other similarities. Many continue to dismiss these readings, but at the end of the day, their intentionality doesn’t change how these connections resonate with fans.
Elsewhere, Usher was the latest artist to comment on Kendrick Lamar’s headlining slot. “Everybody has this fifteen minutes of fame idea, but it’s really your fifteen minutes of fame. You have to play hits. You’ve got to get right to it,” he shared on Live with Kelly and Mark. “I want no part of that. I’m sorry,” the singer shared when asked whether or not he could help squash the Drake beef. “Let’s just say, it’s been a great experience to say that I could play the Super Bowl. I understand how much pressure comes with it and I wouldn’t wish it on anybody. But I would wish it on you if you’ve had the career.”
Some other controversy is afoot, such as the “Not Like Us” music video allegedly costing Compton businesses thousands of dollars. Hopefully a reimbursement can uplift these affected enterprises or some other form of agreement can level things out. With all this in mind, all eyes are on Kendrick Lamar. They’ve been like that since “Like That,” so you’d think folks would be able to recognize him easily… Especially a huge sports organization.
Eminem is getting tons of praise on social media for his performance at the boxing match between Terence Crawford and Israil Madrimov. He kicked the show off with his recent single, “Houdini.” Afterward, he remarked: “Yo California, make some motherf*ckin’ noise for Terence Crawford!” He also performed “Rap God,” “Till I Collapse,” “Cinderella Man,” and “Lose Yourself.” The entire set lasted a total of 15 minutes.
Fans on social media have been loving the performance. “Not only is he a rap legend, but he’s showing some serious love for the boxing world too,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another added: “His live shit sounds the same as his albums. Most people sound like sh*t or use a track.”
Eminem Performs At Terence Crawford & Israel Madrimov Fight
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 3: Eminem performs before the WBA junior middleweight title bout between Terence Crawford and Israel Madrimov at BMO Stadium on August 3, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
Despite the praise from fans, Eminem recently revealed that his alter ego, Slim Shady, isn’t such a big fan of his music. During an appearance on Complex’s The Face-Off series, last week, Em, speaking as Shady, labeled his music “lyrical miracle” raps. “Everything that people think of when they think of Eminem is f*cking yours truly. From the blonde hair to the middle finger to the f*cking jokes — all of it, me. And if we’re being honest, the music that you’ve been dropping since I bounced ain’t it. Look man, nobody gives a f**k about your lyrical miracles you’re scaring the hoes. People wanna be entertained,” he remarked. That interview came after Eminem dropped his new album, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce).
Eminem Performs Several Of His Biggest Hits
Check out Eminem’s full performance from the Crawford vs. Madrimov boxing match above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Eminem On HotNewHipHop.
Terence Crawford is a name among those who excel in boxing. He has accrued a net worth of $8 million by 2024, as detailed by FanArch. His journey from an ambitious young athlete to becoming an undefeated world champion across multiple weight classes is a testament to his skill, determination, and careful career management. Significant victories mark Crawford’s dominance in the sport. It’s also highlighted by strategic decisions that have advanced his standing and solidified his financial success.
Champion Across Weight Classes
LAS VEGAS, NV – JUNE 07: Terence Crawford (L) and WBO welterweight champion. Jeff Horn face off during a news conference at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on June 7, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Horn will also defend his title against Crawford on June 9 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
Crawford’s boxing career is distinguished by his ability to conquer multiple divisions. He has earned world titles in the lightweight, light welterweight, and welterweight categories. This feat showcases his remarkable adaptability and skill, setting him apart as one of the sport’s most versatile fighters. His accomplishments within the ring reflect a relentless pursuit of greatness, underscored by tactical brilliance and an indomitable spirit.
Strategic Career Choices
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 29: Terence Crawford punches Errol Spence Jr. during round 7 of their World Welterweight Championship bout at T-Mobile Arena on July 29, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Beyond his physical capabilities, Crawford’s career is characterized by astute decision-making and strategic foresight. The management of his fights, purse negotiation, and promotional endeavors have been meticulously planned to ensure optimal financial gain and career progression. Additionally, his engagement with endorsements and partnerships has been integral to building a robust financial portfolio. This also highlights a multifaceted approach to career development.
Influence & Legacy
NEW YORK, NY – April 4: ( MANDATORY CREDIT Bill Tompkins/Getty Images ) Terence Crawford at boxing press conference on April 4th, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Bill Tompkins/Getty Images)
Moreover, Crawford’s impact on boxing extends beyond his accolades. He is admired for his discipline, resilience, and strategic insight, inspiring both fans and aspiring boxers. His legacy in the sport is not just defined by his undefeated record and championship titles but also by his contribution to enhancing the profile of boxing and mentoring the next generation of fighters. His journey underscores what it means to be a champion inside and outside the ring, offering a blueprint for success rooted in hard work, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Terence Crawford’s historic title unification in the welterweight division has come to an end after he was stripped of his IBF title. The International Boxing Federation stripped Crawford of the belt for failing to stage a mandatory defense of the belt in question. Crawford owes Errol Spence Jr. an immediate rematch for the unification bout. However, the IBF does not recognize rematch clauses as a valid exemption to title defenses. Crawford was informed that he must fight Jaron “Boots” Ennis after his win over Spence Jr.
As a result of Crawford losing the belt, Ennis has been elevated to interim IBF welterweight champion. Ennis is 31-0 in his career but has lacked a top-flight opponent or marquee fight. That will likely change now that he is the belt holder. The IBF will likely announce a fight in the coming weeks. As mentioned, Ennis had been scheduled to be Crawford’s title defense following the Spence Jr. fight. Crawford had held the IBF title since 2017, making a sole mandatory defense of the belt in 2018. His rematch with Spence Jr. is yet to be announced but it is being tentatively scheduled for next February. Furthermore, Crawford is yet to release a statement addressing the IBF’s decision.
Terence Crawford is no longer the undisputed welterweight champion after he was stripped of the IBF title, per the organization’s updated rankings at 147 pounds.
Jaron “Boots” Ennis was elevated from interim titleholder to IBF welterweight champion. pic.twitter.com/LVJL20nI91
However, Crawford’s belt may not be the only one that the IBF will be stripping in the coming months. Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are scheduled to fight their own historic unification bout in February. However, the IBF has informed both fighters that a mandatory defense of the belt against Filip Hrgović will be required after the fight, regardless of a rematch clause.
Hrgović is 16-0 and a super-heavyweight bronze medalist from the 2016 Olympics. The IBF ruled back in August that Hrgović was next in line to fight Usyk. However, that ruling was ignored in favor of the more headline-grabbing bout between Usyk and Fury. Usyk has held the IBF belt since September 2021. Furthermore, IBF President Daryl Peoples did not respond to requests for comment from ESPN over the stripping of Crawford’s belt.
Those looking for a historic upset from Jermell Charlo were left sorely disappointed on Saturday night. Canelo Alvarez easily beat Charlo in a unanimous decision, 118-109, 118-109, 119-108. “Nobody can compete with this Canelo. Two months in the mountains without my family. I still love boxing. I love boxing so fucking much. Boxing is my life. Boxing made me the person I am today,” Canelo said after the fight. Alvarez, who had told reporters he was “still in his prime” prior to the fight, spent most of the bout trying to goad Charlo into engaging. Charlo, who was fighting up two divisions, managed to avoid most of Alvarez’s power attacks but rarely went on the offensive himself.
“I feel like it wasn’t me in there. I don’t make excuses. You win some, you lose some. I’m undisputed in my weight; I was daring to be great. I’m proud of myself. He didn’t knock me out; he knocked all the other guys out,” Charlo said after the fight. Furthermore, Charlo confirmed that he would be returning to 154 pounds for the foreseeable future. He still holds three titles at junior middleweight but was stripped of the WBO title before the fight. He will have to wait on the October 14 bout between Tim Tszyu and Brian Mendoza before he can mount another claim to be undisputed.
Alvarez Eyes Cinco De Mayo, Charlo Calls Out Crawford
As for the future, both men had different plans. “Whoever. I don’t fucking care,” Canelo said when asked who he intends to fight in his next scheduled bout over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. Potential contenders could include David Benavidez and Demetrius Andrade, both of whom have called out Alvarez over the past few years. The two men fight later this year, setting up a de facto challenger to Canelo through the winner. However, the marquee fight in the eyes of many fans would be to pit Alvarez against Terence Crawford.
Despite this, that may have to wait as Charlo called out Crawford directly after the fight. However, Charlo also stated that he was happy to wait for a winner from Tszyu-Mendoza and then challenge for the WBO belt he just lost. Charlo was meant to fight Tszyu back in January before breaking his hand in training. However, for now, both camps will return to their home bases – one in victory and the other in bitter and humbling defeat.
Undisputed welterweight boxing champion didn’t take kindly to Maino betting against him in his unificiation fight against Errol Spence Jr. According to Maino, he had made a bet with Angela Yee about the fight. “So yeah, I bet on the fight,” he admitted in defeat. “Yes I did. I placed a small wager — not for money, not for bragging rights! But I bet Angela Yee [that] if I lose — ‘cause I bet on Spence — if I lose, then I gotta wear the same outfit for one week straight, take pictures in it, everything. I don’t know how I feel about that … I gotta figure this out,” Maino said on Instagram after the fight.
Then Crawford rolled up outside the studios where Yee’s podcast is recorded to confront Maino. “I bet against you and lost, I had to wear the same clothes for a week straight. I don’t want no smoke, but I’m man enough to tell you I was wrong,” the rapper pleads with the boxer in a since-released video of the confrontation. Maino manages to resist the boxer’s repeated demands to apologize. However, he does admit that he “did bad.”
Aside seeking answers from his doubters, Crawford has also been discussing his next potential fights. One name that has arisen is Cancelo Álvarez. Álvarez is 59-2-2 in his career and is currently the undisputed super middleweight champion. Despite this hype, it’s not a fight that Crawford himself is interested in. “No, not at all,” Crawford told TMZ in regards to his interest in the fight. “Canelo really don’t interest me because of the size factor.”
However, Crawford did have some ideas for his next fights. First and foremost is the expected rematch for the welterweight title. “That’s my obligation in the contract and I gotta honor that if that’s the next move for me and my career,” Crawford said. The rematch clause is valid for 30 days after the fight and it is widely expected that Spence Jr. will trigger it later this month. Beyond Spence Jr. however, there was one opponent that Crawford liked the idea of fighting. “I would definitely choose Jermell Charlo. It’s a meaningful fight,” Crawford said. “It’s more history, it’s more on the table.”
Terence Crawford is currently the biggest name in boxing. The 40-0 fighter is coming off a dominant performance against Errol Spence Jr. in their undisputed welterweight unification fight. While a rematch with Spence Jr. will likely take place before the end of the year, many people have been speculating on what Crawford’s next fight could be. One name that has arisen is Cancelo Álvarez. Álvarez is 59-2-2 in his career and is currently the undisputed super middleweight champion.
However, it’s not a fight that Crawford himself is interested in. “No, not at all,” Crawford told TMZ in regards to his interest in the fight. “Canelo really don’t interest me because of the size factor.” Álvarez is a little under 20 lbs heavier than Crawford. Furthermore, Crawford referenced the fact that Álvarez has bounced around various weight classes over the years. “You don’t know what weight [Canelo’s] fighting at when he fighting,” Crawford explained. Crawford has expressed interest in fighting at 154 lbs. However, that’s an 8lb gain compared to a 19lb one.
However, Crawford did have some ideas for his next fights. First and foremost is the expected rematch for the welterweight title. “That’s my obligation in the contract and I gotta honor that if that’s the next move for me and my career,” Crawford said. The rematch clause is valid for 30 days after the fight and it is widely expected that Spence Jr. will trigger it later this month. Beyond Spence Jr. however, there was one opponent that Crawford liked the idea of fighting.
“I would definitely choose Jermell Charlo. It’s a meaningful fight,” Crawford said. “It’s more history. It’s more on the table.” As alluded to by Crawford, he has a long history with the 35-1 Charlo. Even at his unification victory over Spence Jr., Crawford found time to trade barbs with the Louisiana fighter. Much like his long feud with Spence Jr., fighting Charlo would settle a long war of words. Furthermore, Charlo is currently the undisputed light middleweight champion, which would make for a historic prize for the ever-hungry Crawford.
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(@nojumper)
