Spence blames camp finances ahead of comeback

Former unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. is set to return to the ring for the first time in three years, facing Australian former champion Tim Tszyu in a 158-pound catchweight bout on July 25 in Australia. The comeback follows a period of intense scrutiny over his decisive loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023 and revelations about his mindset and preparation for that fight.

In recent interviews, Spence has offered candid assessments of his training camp before the Crawford bout, which he lost by ninth-round stoppage. He stated the camp was deeply flawed, citing a lack of proper sparring partners, particularly southpaws to mimic Crawford’s switch-hitting style, and an injury that required a cortisone shot. He also acknowledged personal shortcomings, saying he was not living correctly outside of camp, which left him feeling weak and depleted.

These remarks sparked criticism from some fans who viewed them as excuses. Spence later addressed the backlash directly on social media, clarifying his intent. He stated that regardless of his camp’s issues, Crawford was disciplined and deserved his victory. Crawford’s win made him the first male fighter of the four-belt era to...