In a surprising revelation today, Errol Spence Jr., the former unified welterweight champion, took to Instagram to clarify that he is “NOT” set to face WBC and WBO junior middleweight champion Sebastian Fundora on March 29, 2024. This announcement has stirred the boxing community, as there had been growing anticipation for a potential showdown between these two fighters. Spence, with a professional record of 28 wins and 1 loss, including 22 knockouts, did not provide details on the timeline for any future bouts, leaving fans and pundits alike perplexed about his next move.
Speculation surrounding the scheduling of fights in March appears to be a primary concern for the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC). With WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis slated to defend his title against Lamont Roach on March 1, it becomes increasingly challenging to have another major pay-per-view event in close proximity. The potential clash between Spence and Fundora would not only dilute viewer interest but could also impact revenue generation for the PBC. Engaging in multiple pay-per-view events in a short time frame could prove detrimental, and the Spence-Fundora matchup could ultimately slip through the cracks.
Since his last fight—a notable loss to Terence Crawford on July 29, 2023, where Spence succumbed to a ninth-round knockout—the former champion has chosen to remain out of the spotlight. At 34 years of age, Spence is in a unique position. His financial success over a 13-year professional career has provided him with the luxury to take a prolonged hiatus from boxing, something many fighters cannot afford. This significant income allows him to take his time, unlike most of his contemporaries who feel the pressure to return swiftly to the ring to sustain their livelihoods.
Given the indicators from Spence’s recent statements and behavior, it seems he is in no rush to jump back into the fray. The contrast between his financial stability and the urgency felt by younger or less financially secure fighters raises questions about his motivations moving forward. Would the loss to Crawford have altered his competitive spirit? Or is it more about a strategic recalibration? As Spence navigates his next decision, numerous factors come into play—timing, market conditions, and health.
Fans of boxing eagerly await updates regarding Spence’s career trajectory, particularly to see who he will challenge next. The disappointment over the apparent cancellation of the Fundora bout may lead to a period of uncertainty for Spence and his supporters. Nevertheless, this announcement may also provide an opportunity for Spence to regroup and leverage the insights gained from training and recovery since his last fight. As the boxing landscape continues to evolve, fans are left hope that Spence’s next steps will invigorate the welterweight division. Finding the right opponent could reignite interest in his career and reestablish him as a formidable contender in the sport.