The anticipated boxing match between WBC/WBO junior middleweight champion Sebastian Fundora and Errol Spence Jr. has been officially scrapped. Fundora, who holds an impressive professional record of 21 wins, one loss, and one draw—along with 13 knockouts—now finds himself on the hunt for a new opponent to defend his titles. The likely candidate in the eyes of many analysts and fans appears to be Charles Conwell, a rising contender who would present a different but intriguing challenge for the reigning champion.
The cancellation did not stem from mere negotiations but was heavily influenced by the World Boxing Organization (WBO)’s decision, which was articulated by its president, Gustavo Olivieri, Esq. Several factors contributed to their inability to sanction the match: Spence’s inactivity for a staggering 18 months, his recent loss to Terence Crawford, his absence from the WBO rankings, and the fact that he has never fought in the junior middleweight category. Each of these points paints a picture of Spence as not merely unprepared, but as a fighter whose recent career trajectory raises significant eyebrows.
Adding to the drama, Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford made waves with a mysterious tweet seemingly directed toward Fundora. His message implied that missed opportunities have led to current obstacles, stating, “Should have taken the fight when you had the chance; now it’s over with.” Crawford, now gearing up for a significant payday against Canelo Alvarez, has no apparent interest in taking the risk of fighting Fundora, particularly at this juncture in his career, where the stakes are higher than ever.
For Fundora, this development is not merely an inconvenience; it represents a pivotal moment in his career. With Crawford seemingly out of reach, Fundora needs to focus on other contenders who can elevate his profile and defend his titles effectively. A bout against Charles Conwell could not only serve to solidify Fundora’s standing in the junior middleweight division but also add intrigue and excitement to an otherwise stagnant scene.
The perception of Errol Spence as a competitor has undergone a dramatic shift following his ninth-round knockout defeat against Crawford. Questions surrounding his fitness, abilities, and even his heart for the sport have emerged, especially in light of his previous struggle against Yordenis Ugas, where he narrowly claimed victory. Many boxing fans no longer view Spence as a serious contender, raising ethical questions about his eligibility and the broader implications for potential matchups that would involve him.
As the landscape of the junior middleweight division continues to evolve, the fallout from this match cancellation signifies a larger trend. The junior middleweight championship is rapidly becoming competitive, leading fighters to assess not just their opponents, but their very paths moving forward. Fundora is poised to navigate this landscape wisely, while Spence must contend with a fading reputation and an uncertain future in a sport that demands unyielding resilience. The coming weeks will reveal how both fighters adapt and respond to the challenges before them.