Errol Spence Jr. says the long break from boxing may have saved more than just his career. After nearly three years out of the ring, the former unified welterweight champion says he has changed the habits that once followed him outside the sport ahead of his July 26 return against Tim Tszyu in Australia.
“A lot of the vices I had in the past I don’t drink anymore, so a lot of the stuff that slowed me down I don’t anymore,” Spence told Main Event. “I’m more with my family. If I’m not with my family, I’m probably training somewhere or traveling, seeing the world.
“I feel rejuvenated. I feel like that long layoff definitely helped me physically, definitely helped me mentally, and I’m ready to show everybody what I’ve got.”
The 36-year-old Spence (28-1, 22 KOs) has not fought since his July 2023 stoppage loss to Terence Crawford. Questions followed him to the dismissal. Some centered on the punishment he absorbed in that fight. Others went further back to the 2019 car crash that nearly killed him and the detached retina injury that sidelined him in 2021.
Spence now prepares to return at a catchweight of 158 pounds against Tszyu, who is also trying to build momentum after going 3-3 in his last six fights before compiling back-to-back wins.
“A lot of people probably doubt me,” Spence said. “It’s understandable. I haven’t fought in a long time. I’ve had injuries and things happen outside the ring. But mentally and physically I feel a lot better than people probably think.”
Spence’s return was treated cautiously due to the inactivity and damage associated with the latter part of his career. Yet fighters usually don’t walk away from booze, nightlife and years of bad habits unless something finally scares them.
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Last updated on 2026/05/16 at 16:38
