In a stunning turn of events, the boxing world is reeling from revelations that the head referee of the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford super middleweight title fight, held on September 13, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, has been summoned for an investigation by the Nevada Athletic Commission. The probe, announced on September 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM PDT (9:00 AM ICT, September 18), centers on controversial decisions made by referee Thomas Taylor, which many claim significantly influenced the unanimous decision victory for Crawford (116-112, 115-113, 115-113). The World Boxing Association’s (WBA) official result, crowning Crawford as the undisputed super middleweight champion, has sparked outrage and debate, leaving fans, analysts, and fighters questioning the integrity of the sport’s biggest night.

The Fight That Shook Las Vegas

The Alvarez-Crawford bout, billed as “Once In A Lifetime,” drew a record-breaking crowd of 70,482 and over 41 million global viewers on Netflix, making it the most-watched men’s championship boxing match of the 21st century. Crawford, moving up two weight classes, outboxed Alvarez with speed and precision, becoming the first male fighter in the four-belt era to win undisputed titles in three divisions (light welterweight, welterweight, and super middleweight). However, the fight’s outcome has been overshadowed by allegations of biased officiating, with Taylor’s actions drawing intense scrutiny.

Controversial Decisions Under Fire

Several decisions by referee Thomas Taylor during the fight have fueled accusations of unfairness:

Low Blow Warning Without Point Deduction: In the sixth round, Taylor issued a warning to Alvarez for a low blow with 1:20 remaining, but no points were deducted, despite Crawford’s visible discomfort. Critics argue this leniency allowed Alvarez to maintain momentum.
Handling of Headbutt Incident: In the ninth round, an accidental headbutt caused a cut above Crawford’s right eye. Taylor briefly paused the fight but did not penalize Alvarez, leading some to claim he favored the Mexican star. CompuBox stats show Crawford outlanded Alvarez 33-10 in that round, suggesting the pause disrupted his rhythm.
Alleged Bias in Ring Control: Observers noted Taylor’s frequent interventions during clinches appeared to favor Alvarez, allowing him to reset when Crawford gained the upper hand. “Taylor broke up exchanges just when Bud was landing clean shots,” tweeted boxing analyst Dan Rafael.

These decisions, combined with judge Max DeLuca’s 116-112 scorecard, which gave Crawford eight rounds, have raised eyebrows. “Canelo landed heavier punches. How do you score it that wide?” asked former champion Andre Ward on X, echoing sentiments from fans who felt Alvarez’s power shots were undervalued.

Manny Pacquiao’s Bombshell Allegation

The controversy escalated when Manny Pacquiao, during a September 16 press conference in Manila, accused Crawford of bribing judge Max DeLuca, presenting a video allegedly showing a meeting between DeLuca and a member of Crawford’s team, alongside bank records suggesting a $500,000 transfer. While Pacquiao’s evidence faces scrutiny for potential fabrication, it has amplified calls for a broader investigation, with Taylor now implicated due to his role as the head official. “The referee and judges worked together to steal this fight,” Pacquiao claimed, igniting the hashtag #BoxingScandal, which amassed 10 million engagements on X.

Nevada Athletic Commission’s Response

The Nevada Athletic Commission acted swiftly, suspending Thomas Taylor and Max DeLuca pending a formal inquiry set for September 20, 2025. “We are committed to upholding the integrity of boxing,” the commission stated. “All evidence, including third-party submissions, will be reviewed.” The probe will examine Taylor’s in-ring decisions, communications with judges, and Pacquiao’s allegations. Sources tell ESPN that hotel surveillance footage and financial records are being subpoenaed to verify claims of impropriety.

Reactions from the Boxing World

The boxing community is divided. Canelo Alvarez, initially gracious in defeat, issued a statement on X: “If the referee or judges cheated, I want justice. This sport deserves better #VivaMexico.” Promoter Turki Al-Sheikh, who bankrolled the event, called for “transparency,” warning that “corruption will kill boxing’s future.” Conversely, Crawford’s team denounced the accusations as “a smear campaign.” Crawford tweeted, “I won clean. They’re mad I’m the best #BudTheGOAT.” Trainer Brian McIntyre added, “This is nonsense to discredit a historic win.”

Fans on X are polarized. “Taylor’s calls were shady. Canelo got robbed #JusticeForCanelo,” one user posted, while another countered, “Crawford dominated. Stop crying and accept the truth #TeamBud.” The controversy has reignited debates about boxing’s judging system, with calls for AI-assisted scoring gaining traction. “Human refs are too subjective. It’s time for tech,” tweeted Boxing News editor Matt Christie.

The WBA’s Stance and Potential Fallout

The WBA, alongside the WBC, WBO, and IBF, has stood by the official result but acknowledged the investigation. “We trust the Nevada Athletic Commission to handle this matter,” a WBA spokesperson said. If evidence of misconduct is found, the fight could be declared a no-contest, stripping Crawford of his titles and paving the way for a rematch. Such an outcome would be a massive blow to Crawford’s legacy, who is celebrated for his 42-0 record and historic three-division undisputed reign.

Analysts predict a no-contest ruling could lead to a 2026 rematch, potentially generating even higher viewership on Netflix. “This drama is bigger than the fight itself,” said Sports Illustrated columnist Chris Mannix. “A rematch would break all records.” However, a clean investigation upholding the result could cement Crawford’s status as one of boxing’s all-time greats, while further damaging Alvarez’s reputation after his third career loss.

A Cloud Over Boxing’s Biggest Night

The investigation into Thomas Taylor’s controversial decisions has cast a dark shadow over what was hailed as a historic night for boxing. With Manny Pacquiao’s bribery allegations, fan outrage, and the Nevada Athletic Commission’s probe, the sport faces a critical moment. Will the truth vindicate Crawford’s victory, or will evidence of foul play rewrite history? As the boxing world awaits the September 20 hearing, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Stay tuned for updates as this explosive saga unfolds on X and beyond.