By Arthur Rooks, Boxing Contributor

Terence Crawford scored a tightly contested unanimous decision victory over Israil Madrimov on Saturday, capturing the WBA “super” junior middleweight title. Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs), ESPN’s No. 2 pound-for-pound boxer, secured scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 115-113, becoming a four-division champion. The bout, which ESPN scored 115-114 from ringside, showcased Crawford’s precise jab and accurate lead right hand, allowing him to edge out the resilient Madrimov in a thrilling encounter.

Israil Madrimov (10-1-1, 7 KOs) demonstrated his skills by landing cleaner and more effective shots throughout the fight. His fast feet and good rhythm allowed him to challenge Crawford’s strategy, creating a highly competitive match.

Despite Madrimov’s durability and counter-punching ability, Crawford’s experience and adaptability ultimately swayed the judges’ scorecards in his favor. The fight, however, lacked consistent exchanges, as both fighters were cautious and strategic in their approaches, leading to a tense but tactical showdown.

The night of boxing also saw Jose Valenzuela defeat Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz by split decision to win the WBA junior welterweight title. Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs) upset fellow Mexican Isaac Cruz (26-3-1, 18 KOs) with scores of 116-112, 116-112, and 115-113 for Cruz. Valenzuela, having suffered back-to-back defeats in 2022-23 at 135 pounds, made a triumphant comeback. Cruz, rated No. 4 by ESPN at junior welterweight, was making his 140-pound debut after scoring an eighth-round TKO victory over Rolly Romero in March.

In heavyweight action, Martin Bakole scored a devastating fifth-round knockout victory over Jared Anderson at BMO Stadium. Bakole (21-1, 16 KOs) handed Anderson (17-1, 15 KOs) his first career loss. Despite Anderson’s valiant efforts in Round 3, Bakole’s powerful uppercut followed by a straight right sent Anderson crashing to the mat.

In a separate bout, David Morrell defeated Radivoje Kalajdzic by unanimous decision to win the WBA vacant “regular” light heavyweight title. Andy Cruz also secured a seventh-round KO victory over Antonio Moran in a lightweight contest.

Former heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. and Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller fought to a majority draw in an undercard fight, with Ruiz hinting at a potential rematch after revealing a hand injury that hampered his performance.