Errol Spence Jr suffered the first defeat of his career at the hands of Terence Crawford and opted not to take a rematch despite it being on the table.
Though the undisputed welterweight contest, which took place in July 2023, was viewed as a pick ’em contest by many, Crawford dominated, dropping Spence three times before forcing a stoppage in the ninth round.
Spence did activate his contractual rematch clause, which had been agreed to take place at welterweight again, but the time limit on the option lapsed, and Crawford moved on. He vacated his four belts at 147lbs to move up to super-welterweight and defeat Israel Madrimov before a further jump to super-middleweight to beat Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez before announcing his retirement.
Speaking to Fight Hub TV, Spence was asked directly why he didn’t force the second fight.
“When was the rematch gonna be? Within a year? I wouldn’t have been ready, so how would I take a rematch if I’m not gonna be ready?”
The former unified world champion ends three years of inactivity this weekend in Sydney, Australia, when he faces Tim Tszyu.
Buoyed by new trainer Ronnie Shields, Spence has promised fans that he feels rejuvenated and ready to return at 36. His return will answer many questions about his future in the sport, and whether a world title push at super-welterweight or middleweight is on the cards.
Tszyu, however, plans to spoil any plans the American has, vowing to send him into retirement.
