Errol Spence Jr. has returned to the conversation in the boxing world by signaling his intentions to reestablish himself in a higher weight class. After a year-long absence from the ring, following his disappointing defeat to Terence Crawford, Spence took to social media to announce his readiness to take on competitors in the 154 and 160-pound divisions, a clear indication that he is prepared to move beyond his past performance at 147. The numbers “154-160” alongside a video projecting ferocity signifies a newfound determination, suggesting that he has spent the past months mentally regrouping and plotting his path forward.
The loss to Crawford, a setback that was not just a blemish on his record (now at 28-1 with 22 KOs), may have acted as a catalyst for Spence to reassess his boxing career priorities. This defeat was more than just a momentary disadvantage; it was a call to action. Spence has acknowledged his struggles with making weight over the years, particularly since 2019, indicating that perhaps the welterweight division had become a limiting factor in his athletic performance. Moving up to 154 or even 160 pounds could open up an array of exciting matchups that promise financial rewards and the chance to reclaim his status as a top fighter.
Should Spence make the jump to 154 pounds, the possibilities seem nearly endless. He could find himself competing against prominent names like Israil Madrimov, Tim Tszyu, and Vergil Ortiz Jr. These matchups don’t just represent lucrative opportunities—they carry the potential to revitalize Spence’s career and restore his reputation. It would be particularly interesting to see if figures such as His Excellency Turki Alalshikh become interested in featuring Spence at significant events like Riyadh Season, which could provide the spotlight he needs to reignite his momentum in the sport.
However, the clock is ticking. Spence’s prolonged inactivity—14 months since his last fight—raises concerns about his readiness to compete at such a high level. In comparison, fighters like Terence Crawford, Yordenis Ugas, and Danny Garcia have fought within similar timeframes, yet Spence’s current absence from the ring could hinder his re-entry into competition. If he remains stagnant throughout 2024, the risks of reduced performance and dwindling marketability will become apparent, especially considering the fierce nature of boxing at this level.
There is an underlying concern that Spence’s approach to his career has shifted toward a part-time commitment, a misstep for an athlete of his caliber. While good financial prospects exist for him, treating boxing more like a hobby than a primary profession could diminish his potential to ascend back to the pinnacle of the sport. For Spence, it’s time to embrace the challenges ahead, assure his fans of his dedication, and, ultimately, reclaim his status among the elite in boxing.