Errol Spence’s aspiration for a title fight against Sebastian Fundora has recently come crashing down. The WBO’s decision not to sanction the highly anticipated bout left Spence without a fight, forcing him into a frustrating hiatus. With Fundora now preoccupied with another opponent, Spence’s quest for glory seems to have taken a significant step backwards. Despite the obstacles, Spence remains defiant, insisting on his return when he feels ready, yet this leaves fans questioning not only the timing but the viability of his eventual comeback.
At 34, Errol Spence’s career is overshadowed by an alarming period of inactivity. Fans and analysts alike have been vocal on social media, expressing concerns that retirement might be the best option for the once-prominent fighter. His performance in recent years suggests a gradual decline; the fighter who dominated the welterweight division between 2012 and 2018 feels like a distant memory. The stats amplify the concern—Spence has been out of the ring for 18 months following a devastating loss to Terence Crawford in July of 2023. With no future bouts lined up and an air of uncertainty surrounding his career, Spence is indeed facing what could be a defining crossroad.
The challenges Spence has faced are manifold. Following a near-fatal car crash in 2019, he has been plagued by injuries, weight management issues, and the undeniable erosion that comes with inactivity. Each obstacle has taken its toll, leaving the former unified welterweight champion vulnerable. Fans reminisce about a time when a vintage Spence would have been a formidable competitor against not just Fundora, but also Crawford. Now, however, he appears to be operating far below his peak, and with every passing fight that he misses, the shadow of doubt grows heavier.
While there are severe limitations in the 154-pound division, the prospect of fighting Tim Tszyu emerges as a potential route for Spence. The financial allure of Australian pay-per-view revenue could provide not only a lucrative payday but also a chance at redemption. If Spence can recapture even a fraction of his former prowess, a fight with Tszyu could affirm his relevance in the sport. However, the looming question remains: Is he still capable of delivering a performance worthy of his past accolades? Many skeptics suggest the possibility that the wear and tear may have compromised his ability to compete effectively, even against opponents perceived as winnable.
As Errol Spence stands at this critical juncture in his career, the path forward is fraught with uncertainty. The blend of inactivity, the ramifications of past injuries, and burgeoning doubts about his competitive edge all contribute to a legacy that, while once shining, now appears conflicted. Boxing has a way of swiftly moving on, and unless Spence can mount a comeback that defies these limitations, he risks fading into the annals of a once-great champion. The time for decisive action is upon him, and whether he possesses the will—and the skill—to seize that opportunity remains to be seen.