Earlier this month, Terence Crawford made history under the Zuffa Boxing banner at Allegiant Stadium. After moving up to a higher weight class, Crawford dominated the legendary Canelo Álvarez, claiming a unanimous decision to capture the undisputed super middleweight championship. With the victory, he became one of only six male boxers in history to win world titles across five weight divisions. In addition, ‘Bud’ exemplified true fair play by returning Álvarez’s customized belt, earning admiration not just within the boxing world but also in his hometown of Omaha.

To celebrate ‘Bud’s achievement, the city organized a parade and ceremony at Heartland of America Park on Crawford’s 38th birthday. Families and children attended the celebration, creating a memorable day for the champion, with highlights quickly trending on social media. However, later that morning, the Omaha Police Department stopped Crawford at gunpoint (as per AccordingToBoxing). Social media clips showed officers handcuffing him without clear cause, though they released him later without charges.

The incident sparked a wave of online controversy, which subsequently prompted Omaha Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. to address the situation on Facebook: “My statement on Bud Crawford traffic stop: I learned Omaha police pulled over Terence “Bud” Crawford on a traffic stop downtown early this morning. After learning of this, I spoke personally to Bud Crawford. I acknowledge the seriousness of what occurred and how trust between law enforcement and our community is important and shows the need to be continuously vigilant about building relationships.”

In addition, Mayor Ewing revealed that he spoke with Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer, who “pledged” to launch an internal investigation. The 64-year-old mayor further assured the public, “We will gather all the facts and be transparent with the public about our findings.” Acknowledging the wider implications of the incident, including potential racial undertones, Ewing urged residents to refrain from spreading rumors.

Finally, expressing his disappointment, he added: “Understand that my heart dropped in learning of this end to an otherwise wonderful day and evening celebrating our city’s world boxing champion. We held a great parade and great event at Heartland of America park. The evening birthday party at Steelhouse, which I and members of my team attended, was a showing of joy and pride. Omaha needs to remember this important day as a good one while we seek answers to how it ended.”

“Meanwhile, we must ensure that every resident, no matter who they are, feels safe and respected in Omaha.” Although the Omaha Police released Terence Crawford without charges, they said they had specific reasons for pulling over the American boxing star.

Why was Terence Crawford stopped at gunpoint by police?

Although Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. promised a full investigation, public opinion has already tilted heavily in Terence Crawford’s favor. Following the incident, fans and community members accused Omaha police of racism and racial profiling, with much of the backlash now directed at the department. In response, the Omaha Police Department defended its actions. An official statement explained that officers stopped a vehicle around 1:30 a.m. Sunday near 12th and Capitol Avenue after observing it driving recklessly.

During the stop, officers reported spotting a firearm inside the car, which prompted them to draw their weapons and order the four occupants out at gunpoint. They later identified Crawford as the driver. To address concerns, police clarified that a member of Crawford’s security team owned the firearm and carried it legally. OPD further confirmed that every occupant in the car held a valid license to carry firearms.

As a result, the incident cast a complex shadow over Terence Crawford’s birthday, turning what should have been a celebratory night into a moment remembered for both triumph and controversy. Given these circumstances, what’s your perspective on the police’s handling of Crawford and his companions? Share your thoughts below.