The boxing world witnessed a plot twist on Saturday night, and undisputed welterweight champion Terence Crawford isn’t throwing any punches of joy. Errol Spence Jr. is coming back in the ring after a lengthy cataract injury layoff. Now he’s made a move that sent shockwaves through the welterweight division. Spence, instead of setting his sights on a highly anticipated rematch with Crawford, chose a bold strategy.
Spence Jr. entered the ring after Sebastian Fundora‘s victory and directly confronted the new champion, even proposing a potential fight location. This audacious move throws a wrench into plans for a Crawford-Spence rematch, a fight that had boxing fans buzzing. Crawford thoroughly dominated Spence last year to unify the welterweight titles, and a second showdown seemed like the natural next step. Spence’s actions suggest a different path. He might be looking for a fresh challenge instead of an immediate rematch.
Errol Spence Jr. gives a smart reply to Terence Crawford
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A brutal war unfolded in the T-Mobile Arena last night, shattering an Australian dream. Tim Tszyu, aiming to follow in his legendary father’s footsteps, fell short in his quest for unified world champion glory. Stepping into the ring against Sebastian Fundora, a late replacement opponent, Tszyu fought valiantly. However, a grueling battle left him bloodied and defeated.
Idk champ I don’t do lines .. https://t.co/p60nxAYIsa
— Errol Spence (@ErrolSpenceJr) March 31, 2024
Now, Spence Jr. vowed to fight against the winner of Tszyu-Fundora, so he’s got his eyes on Sebastian Fundora. However, Terence Crawford wants to be ahead against Errol Spence Jr, and stated, “@ErrolSpenceJr sorry buddy you gotta wait in line sir.” So, Spence Jr. responded on the X, and he replied, “Idk champ I don’t do lines ..” So, Fundora surprised everybody by grabbing the title at 154.
Sebastian Fundora was not the one who was predicted to win against Tszyu, however, after participating in one of the goriest fights in the history of boxing, he’s developed respect in the game. Even Tim Tszyu showed his opponent respect after the fight.
Tim Tszyu remains gracious despite it all
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A cruel twist of fate derailed Tim Tszyu’s dream of becoming a unified champion in a brutal Las Vegas fight. Tszyu, aiming to honor his father’s legacy, entered the ring against Sebastian Fundora. The fight was tightly contested until the second round, when a clash of heads left Tszyu with a gruesome gash on his head, courtesy of Fundora’s significant height advantage. Despite the horrific wound that severely hampered his vision, Tszyu displayed a true warrior spirit and battled on.
Read More: “It’s Like Somebody Died”: Andre Ward Doesn’t Believe Errol Spence Jr.’s Comeback Will Be Easy
Unfortunately, the judges awarded a split decision victory to Fundora, handing Tszyu his first professional defeat. In a display of remarkable sportsmanship, Tszyu acknowledged the unfortunate circumstances and congratulated Fundora. “These things happen. The momentum was rolling. I was swinging hard in the first rounds and then ‘boom’, you’re blinded completely. But, look, this is boxing. This is part of the sport and it happens. Congratulations to Fundora – he’s the new king at 154 (pounds),” Tszyu said, his voice filled with respect for his opponent.
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While the loss stings, Tszyu’s fighting spirit and graciousness in defeat have earned him the respect of the boxing world. Though his championship dreams were put on hold, he’ll be back inside the boxing ring. What are your thoughts on this? Tell us in the comments section.
Also Read: “You Look like a Linebacker”: Terence Crawford Reacts as Errol Spence Jr Calls Out Sebastian Fundora