Errol Spence Jr. is returning to the ring with sharp adjustments and impressive punch resistance, according to Brian Mendoza, who sparred with him ahead of the Tim Tszyu fight on July 25.
What happened?
Mendoza was impressed by Spence's ability to take punches and make adjustments during their sparring sessions.
Spence has been out of the ring for three years, but Mendoza believes he is returning with more left in the tank than many critics expect.
Why it matters for Errol Spence Jr.
The former unified champion is looking to revive his career after a ninth-round stoppage loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023.
Mendoza said Spence's work ethic and ring IQ were evident in their training sessions, and he is not just showing up for a paycheck.
What comes next?
Spence will face Tim Tszyu in a 158-pound catchweight bout in Sydney on July 25, and both fighters are looking to prove they still belong at the highest level.
Mendoza has a unique perspective on the matchup, having lost a unanimous decision to Tszyu in October 2023.
Spence's punch resistance was a major question mark after his lengthy layoff, but Mendoza said he sent some tough shots Spence's way and was impressed by his response.
The fight on July 25 will be a crucial test for both Spence and Tszyu, who are looking to rebound from recent defeats.
Spence has not fought since losing his WBC, WBA, and IBF welterweight titles to Crawford, while Tszyu is trying to recover from losses to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev.
Mendoza's assessment suggests Spence is arriving in Australia with more than many critics have assumed.
The outcome of the fight will be closely watched, as both fighters look to prove they still have what it takes to compete at the highest level.