Boxing is experiencing a golden age: epic showdowns, history-making clashes and unexpected twists. Yet amid the excitement, a nagging pain persists. If only some familiar names were part of the party. One name, in particular, stands out: former unified champion Errol Spence Jr.
It has been difficult to watch his decline. The problems piled up, but the crushing defeat to Terence Crawford only deepened the struggle. A comeback proved elusive: eye surgery, a prolonged layoff of almost two years and retirement rumours fuelled the uncertainty.
The Texas resident has remained undecided about his future, but a recent revelation sheds light on the depth of his struggles. His raw confession struck a chord, prompting an unexpected response from Gervonta Davis, with whom Spence Jr. had a fierce confrontation last year.
A sincere expression of comfort
“I felt this…”, wrote the Baltimore resident. He hoped that Errol Spence Jr. and his family were well. The warm gesture from a reigning champion, known for his killer attitude in the ring and his best trash talk outside of it, followed a pain-laden acknowledgment from Spence Jr
“The worst thing I did to myself was drink. If you’re an athlete, focus on the end goal,” he wrote, adding: “I hope it’s a better situation for you and your loved ones.” For many, this is a moving revelation. It is well known that there were a number of problems that plagued the “Big Fish.”
But insobriety? Even the staunchest supporters would put it last. After months of inactivity, hopes were rekindled when reports surfaced of a clash with 154-pound champion Sebastian Fundora. But perhaps fate had eluded Spence Jr. Talks for the fight came and went. Earlier this year, just when it seemed that the fight was secured, reports emerged that it would no longer take place.
Spence Jr.’s cryptic messages made the situation even more confusing. Last year, when discussions about the showdown with Fundora arose, he mentioned that it might be the last time fans would see him in the ring. Then, later this year, he mentioned that he would return when he was “ready.”
The uncertainties only added to the sad conclusion that perhaps Errol Spence Jr. will not return to the ring.
When a Gervonta Davis vs. Errol Spence Jr. fight almost happened
What is interesting to note is that Gervonta Davis‘ approach follows the heated exchange he had with Errol Spence Jr. Last June, “Tank” fought Frank Martin in his first title defense. Spence Jr. was also present at the press conference. It was the first major press conference after the fight with Crawford.
However, while Spence Jr. previously stepped in as a fighter, this time, he attended as Martin’s promoter. During the discussions, Davis interrupted him, prompting Spence Jr. to respond with his now famous response. “Who have you backed him with? Who do you back him with? You don’t fight anybody, brother. You’re here to get a check,” said the former welterweight champion.
It is encouraging to see a champion, one of boxing’s biggest draws, reach out to a former champion, a future Hall of Famer, who might need a hand.
Read the full article here
