Terrence Crawford accuses Eddie Hearn of Ricky Burns ‘disrespect’ in explosive row

Terence Crawford accused promoter Eddie Hearn of disrespecting Scottish former champions Ricky Burns as the pair were involved in a heated exchange ahead of his bit do become a four-division world champion when he takes on Hearn's Israil Madrimov this weekend.

Matchroom's Hearn - who promotes the undefeated Madrimov - was in Crawford's crosshairs as he was accused of "disrespect" to Scotland's three-weight world champion Ricky Burns during a heated clash at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Crawford wouldn't let Hearn forget about his first ever world title win in Glasgow when he saw off Burns at the Hydro in 2014 - but was quick to recognise the achievements of Burns as he declared his glittering career better than that of Anthony Joshua.

Crawford kicked off the exchange stating: "I recall I’m 3 and 0 against you, sir … " Hearn cut him off answering: "One was against Ricky Burns..." Crawford quickly clapped back: "That’s your best champion. Why would you disrespect your best champions?"

Hearn attempted to move away from the perceived swipe at Burns replying: "That was your hardest fight. And this is going to be your hardest fight on Saturday..."

Undeterred Crawford went on: "That is your best champion. Why would you disrespect you best champion? Where is Ricky at? I like Ricky, man, you are disrespectful."

Hearn fired back "You robbed him in Scotland." Crawford laughed before continuing: "You know that is your best champion?"

Baffled, Hearn said: "What, ever?" Crawford continued: "Who is more accomplished than Ricky Burns?" The Englishman posed: "Carl Froch? Anthony Joshua?"

Crawford: "No, no. Anthony Joshua, no, and that's my boy. He is a three-weight world champion, put some respect on that man's name."