The future of former unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr has become one of boxing’s hottest topics.
Central to the debate is whether “The Truth” will fight again, with his absence from the sport now stretching into its third year. Fans last saw Spence in action in July 2023 during the highly anticipated undisputed welterweight title clash with Terence Crawford. What was billed as a 50-50 contest turned into a masterclass from Crawford, who stopped his great rival in the ninth round.
While Spence has never officially retired, the longer he stays out of the ring, the louder the speculation grows that he may never return. One factor often cited in his defeat to Crawford was the toll of making 147lbs. The formidable Spence who had dominated his previous title defences appeared a shadow of his former self.
This week, there has been speculation of a potential return at super-welterweight. Former two-weight world champion and Boxing Scene pundit Paulie Malignaggi revealed the news on January 13 while in Australia for Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa.
“One of the rumours here is Tim Tszyu vs. Errol Spence.”
Backing up the claim was leading trainer Robert Garcia, who dismissed suggestions of a potential bout between his unbeaten 154lb star Vergil Ortiz and Spence and said he had also heard whispers about a clash against former WBO Champion Tszyu.
“I actually heard that too last night.”
He explained why Ortiz vs. Spence does not currently excite him.
“He’s been out for so long and he’s had problems, accidents [so] it wouldn’t be that exciting for me right now. If he goes out and looks sensational and destroys Tszyu then, yes, it’ll make a lot of sense.”
For now, the boxing world can only speculate. If ‘The Truth’ does return, the jump to super-welterweight could offer a fresh start. But until then, every rumour will continue to dominate the conversation about one of the division’s most talented, yet enigmatic, fighters.
