Errol Spence Jr. Responds to "Washed" Claims
Former unified three-belt welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. (28-1, 22 KOs) took to X, a popular social media platform, on Wednesday to address the growing chorus of fans and critics labeling him as "washed." Spence, known for his sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, fired back at those using the term, arguing that it is often applied "too loosely." The 34-year-old boxer, who will turn 35 in just a week, on March 3rd, has faced a significant amount of scrutiny over the past two years due to his prolonged absence from the ring and the nature of his previous bout.
The Impact of a Two-Year Layoff
Errol Spence’s two-year hiatus from professional boxing has been a major talking point for fans and analysts alike. His last fight, a ninth-round knockout loss to Terence Crawford on July 29, 2023, left many questioning whether he still has what it takes to compete at the top level. Adding to the skepticism is the fact that his last victory was a tenth-round technical knockout of Yordenis Ugas on April 16, 2022, over three years ago. The combination of his age, the brutal knockout by Crawford, numerous injuries, and the extended period without a fight has led many to believe that Spence’s best days are behind him.
The Toll of Inactivity and Wealth
A significant portion of the criticism directed at Spence stems from the belief that his substantial wealth has dampened his fighting spirit and ambition. In boxing, success often brings financial security, and many fighters find themselves becoming less active once they achieve this status. For some, the accumulation of an immense fortune leads to a decline in their willingness to take risks and compete frequently. This trend has been observed in various high-profile boxers, and it’s a concern that Spence might be falling into the same trap. The inactivity has not only affected his physical condition but also his mental edge, leading many to question his commitment to the sport.
Mental and Physical Challenges
Despite the physical challenges, the mental toll of a long layoff and a significant loss cannot be understated. Spence’s extended absence from the ring suggests that his confidence might be severely shaken. Even if his body is still in excellent shape, the psychological impact of a brutal knockout and the break from competition can be detrimental. For many fighters, maintaining mental sharpness and confidence is just as crucial as staying physically fit. The lack of recent activity and the negative social media frenzy might have compounded these mental hurdles, making it difficult for Spence to bounce back and prove his detractors wrong.
Sebastian Fundora’s Openness to a Match
Amidst the criticism, WBC and WBO junior middleweight champion Sebastian Fundora has shown interest in potentially facing Spence. In a press release this week, Fundora stated, "Errol Spence or Terence Crawford fights are always open. I’d love to fight either of them." This openness from a top-tier opponent like Fundora could be the catalyst Spence needs to reclaim his status as a dominant force in boxing. A high-stakes rematch or a new challenge against a formidable opponent could help Spence rebuild his confidence and silence his critics.
Proving the Critics Wrong
To silence the "washed" claims and show that he still has the drive and skill to compete at the highest level, Spence needs to return to the ring and deliver a strong performance. The delay in his return and the reasons behind it are matters of speculation, but one thing is clear: fans and fellow boxers are waiting to see if he can rise to the occasion. If Spence can manage to come back with a powerful and convincing victory, he will not only prove his critics wrong but also reassert his position in the welterweight division. The upcoming months will be crucial as Spence looks to address the doubts and return to the form that once made him a household name in boxing.
