Errol Spence Jr Return Raises Big Questions
Former unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. is set to make his long-awaited return to the ring, against Tim Tszyu on 25th July in Australia, after nearly three years away from boxing. Spence has not fought since his devastating defeat to Terence Crawford, in their one sided undisputed title fight. Following that loss, Spence Jr didn’t activate the rematch clause and many believed Spence’s career at the elite level was over, and retirement seemed inevitable.
Crawford Defeat Looks Different Now
However, time has slightly changed the perception of that defeat. Crawford has since strengthened his legacy even further. He secured a major victory over Canelo Alvarez and became a three-time undisputed champion. As a result, Spence’s loss no longer appears quite as damaging as it once did.
Despite that, Spence faces a difficult challenge in his comeback bout. Tim Tszyu remains one of the toughest and most experienced fighters in the super welterweight division. Meanwhile, the Australian is rebuilding after a difficult spell that included defeats to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev. Since then, Tszyu has responded well by recording two consecutive decision victories to steady his career and rebuild confidence.
Can Spence Still Compete at the Top Level?
Spence’s résumé remains one of the strongest of his generation. Wins over fighters such as Kell Brook, Danny Garcia, Shawn Porter, Yordenis Ugas and Lamont Peterson helped define a golden era of the welterweight division.
The question now is whether the 36-year-old can still perform at the highest level after such a lengthy absence. Against Tszyu, Spence will have the chance to prove he still belongs among boxing’s elite.
