Former world champion Teofimo Lopez has dismissed concerns regarding Errol Spence Jr.’s three-year ring absence, backing “The Truth” to defeat Tim Tszyu on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The super welterweight showdown, officially confirmed for Australia, marks Spence’s return to the sport following his clinical July 2023 loss to Terence Crawford. The bout will headline a Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) pay-per-view event on Prime Video, strategically scheduled for U.S. prime-time audiences.
Teofimo Lopez shared his verdict with Fight Hub TV, stating that he believes Errol Spence Jr. would be “too much” for the Australian star. Despite the 36-year-old Spence not having fought in 36 months, Lopez claims the former unified welterweight king has been working out non-stop and already appears to be in fight shape. He argued that the extended break will serve Spence well, allowing him to stay on a positive trajectory for his 154-pound debut.
The high-stakes nature of the fight is intensified by Spence’s refusal to take a traditional “tune-up” opponent. Instead, Errol Spence Jr. (28-1-0, 22 KOs) is traveling directly to his opponent’s home country to make a statement. Spence explained that he took time away to travel and focus on his family, but he is now ready to step “straight into the fire” in front of a hostile crowd.
Teofimo Lopez examines Errol Spence Jr. physical condition
Observing the elite technical skills of the most dangerous boxers in the world, Teofimo Lopez noted that Spence’s disciplined training habits should negate any ring rust. Lopez expressed a personal desire to see Spence succeed, noting that when a fighter maintains their workout regime during a layoff, they can return looking great. He suggested the mental and physical reset could propel the American back to the top of the rankings.
Spence enters the ring as a southpaw with a height of 5′ 9½\” and a 72-inch reach. While his last recorded weight was 146.5 lbs for the welterweight limit, he is now jumping to the super welterweight division. His professional record stands at 28-1-0 with 22 KOs, giving him a formidable 78.57% knockout rate. This power remains a primary concern for the Tszyu camp as they prepare for the July encounter.
The matchup draws parallels to other high-profile returns in boxing history, where veterans must prove they still possess the speed and reflexes of their prime. Much like the analysis of Tyson Fury during his comeback phases, the boxing world is divided on whether Spence can effectively bridge a multi-year gap. However, Spence has insisted his perspective has changed completely, and he is no longer just aiming to return but to dominate.
Tim Tszyu cleared for the big fish in Australia
Tim Tszyu (27-3-0, 18 KOs) paved the way for this massive event by defeating Denis Nurja via a 10-round shutout decision on Easter Sunday. All three judges scored that contest 100-88 in Tszyu’s favor, clearing the final contractual hurdle for the Spence fight. Tszyu, an orthodox fighter who stands 5′ 8½\” with a 70½-inch reach, recently called out Spence, telling fans he is “coming to catch the big fish.”
The upcoming contest has already turned personal following a tense backstage encounter in Las Vegas. Errol Spence Jr. reportedly ignored Tim Tszyu’s handshake, an act that led the Australian to label Spence a “disrespectful f***.” This friction adds a layer of genuine animosity to the PBC on Prime Video broadcast, which will be the first major U.S. PPV event held in Australia in years.
Tszyu’s high-pressure style and 66.67% knockout rate will be tested against the veteran pedigree of Errol Spence Jr. While Tszyu has been active, fighting as high as 154 lbs recently, he must navigate the technical proficiency of a southpaw who was once a pound-for-pound leader. The fight represents a crossroads moment for both men’s careers in the super welterweight division.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Spence vs. Tszyu fight taking place?
The fight is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Australia. It will be broadcast live in the United States during prime-time hours via PBC Pay-Per-View on the Prime Video platform.
What are the professional records of Errol Spence Jr. and Tim Tszyu?
Errol Spence Jr. holds a record of 28-1-0 with 22 KOs, representing a 78.57% knockout rate. Tim Tszyu carries a record of 27-3-0 with 18 KOs and most recently secured a 10-round decision victory over Denis Nurja.
Why has Errol Spence Jr. been out of action for three years?
Spence has not fought since his ninth-round stoppage loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023. He stated that he took a three-year break from the sport to live in the moment, travel, and give his full attention to his family.
