While most boxers choose adjectives that convey fierceness or menace when naming themselves, two-division undisputed champion Terence Crawford has kept things straightforward by simply going with ‘Bud’. The 36-year-old likes to live a rather simple life, not caring too much about being in the media spotlight. In addition to solidifying his place as one of the top boxers of this era, he has made a strong effort to foster a sense of community in his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. 

Many fans wonder how and why the boxer came up with the nickname ‘Bud’ for himself when he could have gone for a fierce nickname like ‘Tank’, ‘Lights Out’, ‘Hitman’, ‘Razor’, or even ‘Pitbull’. Well, even this story goes back to his hometown. Ahead of his August 3rd bout against Israil Madrimov, check out how he got nicknamed ‘Bud’. 

Meaning behind Terence Crawford’s nickname ‘Bud’

‘Bud’ is typically used to address a brother or friend. However, in Omaha, it was a tradition for several families for their eldest boy to be called Bud. The oldest daughter, on the other hand, would be called Sis. These terms were not only used by siblings but even the mother and father used these terms for referencing their oldest children. While it’s not as common as it once was, many families still follow this custom. 

Terence is the oldest of three children born to his mother Debbie and father Terence Sr. Latisha and Shawntay are his two sisters. Thus he goes by Bud. Apparently, Bud’s childhood was not an ideal one. But he tends to “feed off of that” to help him become a better boxer. Let’s dive deeper into his childhood and what helped him fuel his desire for fighting. 

More about Terence Crawford’s early life and background

The Omaha native had a rough upbringing and he still suffers from childhood trauma. His mother used unconventional methods to make him tough for the world. Crawford mentioned that his mom used to pay other kids in the neighborhood to challenge him physically and even beat him up if possible. “It just made me more hungry”, the boxer recalls. “Hungry, like, ‘Man, my mom going against me. I’m gonna prove her wrong.’ My mom said I can’t do this, I’m gonna do it anyways.” However, he and his mother have talked over this and have a better relationship today.  

Furthermore, he was brought up in a not-so-good neighborhood of Omaha, notorious for violence. So he got into fights, experienced gang life, went to jail for property damage, and even pulled out a gun in a fight. However, he believes it strengthened him and stoked his desire to escape this kind of life.

Now that he has become a globally recognized athlete, Crawford uses his money and influence for the community. He opened a gym in his hometown to help troubled children. He has also traveled to Rwanda with his fourth-grade teacher on volunteer excursions to bring the people useful supplies.

In terms of his private life, the boxer places a high value on being there for his seven kids at all times. Even when he’s preparing for an upcoming fight, he always finds time to attend important events like birthdays. 

Meanwhile, fans are excited to see him fight in the Riyadh season event at the BMO Stadium in LA this coming weekend. What do you think about his moniker by the way? Let us know in the comments below.