Bernie Davis Says Fighters Will Move Away From Traditional Titles

Boxing News

by Robert Segal

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Boxing legend Terence Crawford’s coach, Bernie Davis, has shared his insights on a significant shift in the boxing world: fighters are increasingly moving away from traditional sanctioning-body belts. Davis explains that these titles have lost much of their former influence and prestige due to perceived issues with fairness, quality of matchups, and transparency within governing bodies. Instead, fighters like Crawford are focusing more on unifying championships or earning recognition through rigorous competition and merit. For decades, boxing champions have been defined by the belts awarded by organizations such as the WBC, WBA, WBO, and IBF. However, Davis argues that these entities have failed to maintain consistent standards, leading to a decline in public trust. He points out that fighters are now prioritizing opportunities that offer greater prestige and fairer competition, rather than chasing titles that may not hold the same weight in the eyes of fans or promoters. This shift reflects broader changes in how boxing champions are perceived. Fighters are increasingly looking to establish themselves through unification bouts, where they can prove their dominance against top-tier opponents. This trend aligns with growing fan demand for high-quality matches and more transparent judging, which can make the sport more engaging and credible. Ultimately, Davis’ comments highlight a fundamental transformation in boxing’s competitive landscape. By moving away from traditional titles, fighters like Crawford are redefining what it means to be a champion in modern boxing. This evolution not only impacts individual careers but also challenges the very foundations of how boxing championships

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Originally published on Boxing News on 2/20/2026