In the latest episode of the ‘3 Knockdown Rule,‘ Mario Lopez made a strong point. You can’t blame Sebastian Fundora if the Spence fight failed to materialize. A few might disagree with the contention. But once they hear Fundora’s take on the potential matchup, they may feel compelled to rethink their views. It’s hard to dislike ‘The Towering Inferno.’

In a few hours from now, at the Michelob Ultra Arena, the Florida-born southpaw will defend his unified championship from Chordale Booker. To many, it was a big surprise. Following last year’s bloody battle with Tim Tszyu, the matchup between Fundora and Spence Jr. occupied the narrative. Then, just when it looked set to happen, news came that the fight has been shelved for good. Coupled with medical issues, Spence Jr.’s long absence from the ring sparked retirement rumors. But it seems Sebastian Fundora is more than happy to put aside the issues for one last dance.

Sebastian Fundora: A clash with Spence Jr. is still a compelling option

“Of course I want that fight,” expressing optimism, Sebastian Fundora told Boxing Scene. But given what all transpired during the last few months, Fundora couldn’t hide his disappointment. “It’s a big fight; it’s a big, big fight, but of course it didn’t happen,” he said.

So what’s next? “You just have to keep a good mindset and go; whoever it is we fight, we train 100 percent for them, whether it’s a Spence or a [Chordale] Booker, it doesn’t matter,” Fundora insisted. However, considering how things are developing, a Fundora-Spence Jr. seems unlikely to happen, at least anytime soon.

WBO President Gustavo Olivieri confirmed that Terence Crawford, who has decided to move up two divisions to face ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in September, has decided to relinquish his interim WBO title. As a result, the focus has now shifted to number-ranked Xander Zayas.

However, securing a fight with Spence Jr. won’t come easy

Last month, on Valentine’s Day, the 22-year-old defeated Slawa Spomer on the Berinchyk-Keyshawn Davis card. Post-fight, he revealed his ambition to elevate his career to new heights. Now he may have an opportunity to fulfill those dreams. According to Olivieri, if the WBO Championship Committee accepts his recommendations on making Zayas a mandatory challenger, then depending on the outcome of tonight’s fight, to fulfill the obligation, the winner will have to face Zayas within 120 days.

Unlike most fighters, Sebastian Fundora is not known for calling out names. But he knows what a fight even against a former standout like Errol Spence Jr. means. A win over a future Hall of Famer would not only cement his legacy but also bring significant financial benefits. But then in his quest for the Spence fight, Fundora shouldn’t lose sight of the threats looming at large.

With Crawford’s future as the WBA title now uncertain, an attempt at unification pits Fundora against the heavy-hitting Bakhram Murtazaliev. Then, as Steven Kim highlighted on ‘3 Knockdown Rule,‘ the young contender Charles Conwell is not someone to be overlooked.

But before securing a bigger fight, and possibly a matchup with Spence Jr., Fundora must first overcome the challenge posed by Chordale Booker.

Do you think Fundora vs. Spence would still be a major draw for fans?