From Omaha to the Top: A Look Back at Terence Crawford’s Early Days with KETV News
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Before becoming the world’s top-ranked pound-for-pound boxer, Terence “Bud” Crawford was a rising star honing his craft in Omaha, Nebraska. A recently resurfaced report from KETV NewsWatch 7, originally aired in 2006, offers a interesting glimpse into the early career of the boxing phenomenon and his insightful mentorship of reporter matt Schick.
A Young Fighter’s Viewpoint
The segment, recently shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Matt Schick himself, provides a unique look at Crawford’s mindset even at the age of 18. Schick recounted his experience working at KETV, receiving a tip about the promising young boxer, noting he felt considerably younger than his subject.
The report delves into the frequently enough-unseen mental preparation that goes into boxing. Crawford explained his approach to psyching himself up for a fight, revealing a surprisingly simple tactic: “I just warm up on the speed bag and pretend that is your face.” He emphasized that physical strength is only one component of success, stating, “There’s more to boxing than just hitting hard.”
The Art of Intimidation and Mental Warfare
Crawford detailed the importance of psychological tactics, explaining how he would attempt to “psych out” opponents “by intimidating my opponent by standing them down in the ring, you know, before the fight.” When asked about handling fear, he offered a characteristically blunt response: “That’s for you to find out.” He also acknowledged the role of trash talk, though he confessed to preferring to let his actions speak louder than words, stating, “I do all my trash talking with these,” while gesturing to his fists.
The interaction also touched upon the physical aspects of the sport, with Schick playfully suggesting his slight build might offer an advantage.Crawford responded with humor, acknowledging the adage that “the bigger they are, the harder they fall.”
A Glimpse into a Champion’s Mindset
The KETV segment offers a compelling portrait of a young athlete already possessing the confidence, focus, and mental fortitude that would eventually define his championship career. It’s a reminder that even the greatest champions begin their journeys with humble beginnings and a willingness to share their knowledge. The report, originally updated on September 23, 2025, serves as a valuable piece of boxing history, showcasing the roots of a true sporting icon.
https://twitter.com/ESPN_Schick/status/1005829888998463488
Why, Who, What, and How did it end?
Why: The article examines a resurfaced KETV NewsWatch 7 report from 2006 to provide insight into the early career and mindset of Terence “Bud” Crawford.
Who: The key figures are Terence Crawford, a young, up-and-coming boxer at the time, and Matt Schick, the KETV reporter who interviewed him.
What: The report focuses on Crawford’s mental preparation, psychological tactics, and overall approach to boxing at age 18. It highlights his confidence, focus, and understanding of the sport beyond just physical strength.
How did it end?: The report concludes by framing the segment as a valuable ancient
