Undisputed welterweight boxing champion Terence Crawford recently revealed a surprising dietary choice that has significantly impacted his health and career. During an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, Crawford opened up about his decision to eliminate beef and pork from his diet, citing serious health issues that led to this lifestyle change.
The revelation came when Crawford was discussing his eating habits with Rogan. While admitting that his overall eating habits “is not the best” Crawford explained that he stopped eating beef approximately seven years ago due to severe back problems that were affecting his training and daily life.
“I had back problems and I was like man my back was just hurting so bad and I didn’t know what it was so I went to the hospital”
Crawford explained. After undergoing MRI and CAT scans doctors discovered the surprising cause of his pain.
“I had backed up [waste] all up my back”
Crawford revealed.
“That was what was hurting all beef.”
The medical professionals informed Crawford that beef is particularly difficult for the body to process.
“They said beef is harder to digest and harder for your body to break down”
he noted. Following their advice Crawford completely eliminated beef from his diet and the results were immediate and lasting.
“Since I cut out the beef… I ain’t never had none of them issues ever again”
Crawford stated. This improvement in his health convinced him that the dietary change was the right decision for his body and boxing career.
As for pork Crawford’s reasoning is more straightforward:
“Pork is just you know bad for you it’s unhealthy.”
His decision to avoid pork appears to be based on general health concerns rather than a specific medical incident.
With beef and pork off the table Crawford has restructured his protein intake around healthier alternatives. When asked about his protein sources he replied
“Chicken just chicken turkey fish fish all that yeah so chicken turkey fish.”
This dietary discipline extends beyond just avoiding certain meats. Crawford maintains a structured nutrition plan with the help of professional support.
“I got nutritionist I got Chef all that”
he explained showing his commitment to proper meal preparation and nutritional guidance.
The champion’s experience highlights an important aspect of elite athletic performance – sometimes the smallest changes can have the most significant impact. For Crawford eliminating beef not only resolved his back pain but likely contributed to his overall conditioning and performance in the ring.
Crawford’s dietary revelation comes at the peak of his career following his dominant victory over Errol Spence Jr that solidified his position as the undisputed welterweight champion and pound-for-pound king. His attention to detail in all aspects of his preparation including nutrition demonstrates the commitment required to reach the pinnacle of professional boxing.
If Crawford surprises the world on September 13 and dethrones Canelo Alvarez to become a three-division undisputed champion his career trajectory could reach unprecedented territory. Not only would such a win cement his place as one of the greatest in boxing history but it could also open doors for mega matches across multiple weight classes including potential showdowns with light heavyweight champions or lucrative rematches. A victory over Canelo would give ‘Bud’ unique bargaining power in negotiations likely making him the sport’s most sought-after name for both traditional promoters and crossover events.
