Norman recently began working with Shields in Houston after his own defeat to Devin Haney last November and credits the respected trainer for helping tighten up his game.
“Ronnie Shields is the magic man and has a great mindset,” Norman told Ring. “He lets you go to work. He cleaned up some small things that needed to get tightened up a little bit. It was a great experience, and I can understand why he’s a great coach.”
Although Norman hasn’t sparred with Spence, he says what he’s seen in the gym has left him encouraged.
“I haven’t been able to spar against him. I wish I could. Errol was one of my favorite fighters while I was growing up. The boy is looking good, sharp. I know he’s definitely ready for Tim Tszyu.”
Norman also rejected the idea that Spence needs to resemble the fighter who ruled the welterweight division years ago. Instead, he believes experience and a new voice in the corner can help the 36-year-old evolve.
“I think we are going to see something better than vintage Spence. You’re going to see the new and improved. He doesn’t have to go out there and be the same exact fighter. You get older, you get wiser. You don’t have to be the same person you were 10 years ago. We’re about to see that with Errol Spence.”
Shields has worked with numerous world champions during his long career, including Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Pernell Whitaker, Vernon Forrest and Arturo Gatti. He now trains Spence alongside Norman, Jermall Charlo, Vito Mielnicki Jr., Joshua Edwards and Andreas Katzourakis.
Whether the coaching change translates into success remains to be seen. While Shields can help refine Spence technically and mentally, questions about the former champion’s three-year layoff, age and ring rust won’t be answered until he steps into the ring against Tszyu on July 25.
