Spence Returns After Three-Year Layoff
Errol Spence Jr. stepped back into the ring Saturday night in Sydney after a three-year absence, facing Tim Tszyu in a twelve-round bout that marked his first appearance since a ninth-round stoppage loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023. The former unified welterweight champion showed flashes of his trademark jab and movement, but ring rust was evident throughout the contest as he appeared hesitant compared to the relentless fighter who once held the WBA Super, WBC, and IBF titles simultaneously.
Tszyu Controls Pace En Route to Decision
Tszyu dictated the action from the opening bell, pressing forward behind a high-volume attack that rocked Spence early and consistently forced the American onto the back foot. The Australian landed the heavier shots throughout the fight, with sustained body work slowing Spence’s output as the rounds progressed. Rather than chasing a late knockout, Tszyu boxed intelligently, controlling the pace and cruising to a unanimous decision victory that improved his record to 28-3.
Following the defeat, Spence announced his retirement from boxing after suffering his second consecutive loss. The former champion, who finishes his career with a 28-2 record, stated his intention to focus on family life moving forward. His departure closes the book on a welterweight reign that saw him capture the WBA Super, WBC, and IBF titles before the Crawford defeat derailed his momentum.