Errol Spence Jr., a former unified welterweight champion, is perceived as a damaged figure by fans after his defeat to Terrence Crawford in Las Vegas last July.
Despite his only loss, Spence (28-1, 22 KOs) has been under scrutiny regarding his future at 154 against top fighters in his weight class.
Spence’s explanation of his loss to Crawford being attributed to an eye injury has not been well received by fans on social media, with many perceiving it as a slow and ineffective response.
A shadow of his former self?
Since a serious car crash in late 2019 that left his face and body severely injured, Spence has appeared to be a mere shadow of his former self. Some argue that this might indeed be the case.
Despite his victories over Danny Garcia and Yordenis Ugas in his two fights since the accident, Spence has exhibited a slower and more vulnerable fighting style. His previous dominant performance has faded, and he appears to lag behind rather than unleashing the explosive power he once had. Spence now throws fewer punches and is getting hit more often than before the accident.
It is difficult to quantify the impact of the crash on Spence, given that he has won two out of three fights since then. No one would fault Errol for losing to Crawford, especially if the excuse of a chronic eye injury holds true.
Considering the state of Spence’s car and his diminished post-accident performance, it seems unlikely that he will be able to return to his former prowess. Much like his expensive Ferrari, he may never be the same again.
Will he rise again?
Spence’s power, resilience, and renewed commitment could enable him to revitalize his career and defeat Crawford in a rematch, regardless of when the fight occurs. If he can revert to his pre-accident self, Errol has the potential to rejuvenate his career.
Spence may need to forgo his lavish lifestyle and embrace the humble existence he had before accumulating his wealth. Living modestly, cycling to the gym, abandoning excess, and adopting a frugal lifestyle could be instrumental in his resurgence.
