Errol Spence Jr.’s aspirations for a championship title shot took an unexpected downturn when the World Boxing Organization (WBO) declined to sanction his highly anticipated bout against Sebastian Fundora, the WBC/WBO Junior Middleweight champion. This decision has left Spence at a crossroads, abruptly derailing a potential opportunity that many viewed as a necessary comeback venture after his extended inactivity in the boxing ring. Fundora, undeterred by this development, is now looking elsewhere for competition, further complicating Spence’s return to prominence.
At 34 years old, the pressure is mounting for Spence to return to the squared circle. Fans, increasingly frustrated with his prolonged inactivity over the recent years, are questioning whether retirement should be on the table. The issue isn’t solely his age, but rather the concerning trajectory of his career since 2019. With only one fight in the last eighteen months—a lopsided loss to Terence Crawford—there’s growing sentiment that Spence has been on a downward spiral. His professional record, currently standing at 28 wins and one loss with 22 knockouts, should speak volumes of his potential, yet the silence surrounding his next fight does little to reassure his supporters.
Reflecting on Past Glory
Looking back, the Errol Spence from 2012 to 2018 showcased potential that seemed boundless. Many believe that a vintage Spence would have been more than capable of taking on challenges like Fundora and even Crawford. The impact of his 2019 car accident, compounded by injuries and his struggle to maintain weight, seems to have left an indelible mark on his capabilities. Fans and analysts alike wonder if the Spence of today can still tap into that previous form—a query that intensifies as he delays his return.
In the realm of professional boxing, financial incentives are as critical as competition. Spence’s absence from lucrative fights has positioned him in a precarious situation where the potential returns may not justify the risks. While a match against Tim Tszyu could attract significant attention, particularly tapping into the Australian pay-per-view market, doubts linger over his current fight readiness. Given his lengthy hiatus and diminished momentum, questions arise about whether Spence possesses the stamina and skill set to handle a fighter like Tszyu.
Errol Spence Jr.’s future remains uncertain, defined more by questions than answers. While he asserts that he will return when ready, the landscape of boxing doesn’t wait for anyone, especially for a fighter embroiled in doubt. His journey through inactivity, health challenges, and external setbacks presents a sobering narrative for a once-thriving champion. As fans and analysts continue to speculate about his next moves, one thing is clear: a comeback for Spence is not just a matter of readiness but rather navigating an intricate web of competition, finances, and personal challenges. The boxing world awaits clarity on whether the former champion can reclaim his past glory or if he will fade further into obscurity.