Former undisputed light middleweight champion Jermell Charlo has reportedly backed Tim Tszyu to defeat Errol Spence Jr in a potential future matchup, citing concerns over his former teammate’s recent inactivity and defensive habits. During a recent social media session, Charlo analyzed the tactical matchup and suggested that Tszyu would find success against a rustier version of Spence in a clash that has been widely discussed for later this year.
The endorsement of Tszyu marks a notable shift in the internal dynamics of the elite boxing scene, as Charlo and Spence were longtime stablemates under trainer Derrick James in Dallas. The two were often referred to as the “Twin Towers” of their gym, but the relationship has seemingly cooled over the years. Charlo’s assessment focused heavily on what he perceives as a decline in Spence’s conditioning following his absence from the ring and a lack of head movement that could prove difficult against a power puncher like Tszyu.
And while Charlo remains a major player in the division despite his own recent hiatus, his focus appears to be on addressing the narrative that Spence was the dominant force during their shared training sessions. Reports have long circulated that Spence claimed he frequently got the better of Charlo in sparring, a claim that appears to fuel the current persona Charlo is displaying on social media. Much like Jake Paul details plan for professional boxing return, Charlo is using his platform to shape the conversation around his career and his rivals.
Analyzing the tactical clash between Tszyu and Spence
Charlo’s critique was specific, pointing to the contrasting styles of the two fighters. He noted that Tszyu has developed a better defensive shell and utilizes head movement to set up heavy power shots. In contrast, he described Spence’s approach in less flattering terms and predicted that the former welterweight king would struggle with the transition to the higher weight class after a layoff.
Location is expected to play a factor in the outcome of this fight if it proceeds in Australia as discussed by promoters. Spence would be facing a hostile environment against a fighter who has become a massive national draw. Charlo emphasized that traveling for a comeback fight against a hungry contender like Tszyu is a strategy that rarely favors the veteran fighter. This type of high-stakes matchmaking mirrors other major negotiations in the sport, such as when Eddie Hearn reportedly secured a new deal with a pound-for-pound star to secure big-market dominance.
The fallout of a storied Texas gym rivalry
The tension between Charlo and Spence isn’t just about technical boxing; it bears a personal edge. For years, the two avoided calling each other out because they shared a coach and a training facility. However, since the “Derrick James era” began to splinter and fighters moved to different camps, both men have become more vocal about their past interactions. Charlo’s recent comments suggest he is looking for validation through Spence’s potential defeat.
Charlo explained that he has no immediate interest in fighting Spence himself, but he appears content to see his old rival’s reputation tested. By picking Tszyu, Charlo is essentially betting against his own former training environment. He seems to believe that a loss for Spence would prove that the technical advice and “big brother” status Spence once claimed in the gym have since expired.
Future implications for the 154-pound division
If Tim Tszyu manages to stop Errol Spence Jr in their proposed encounter, it could permanently alter Spence’s status as a top-tier attraction and solidify Tszyu as the dominant force in the light middleweight class. For Charlo, a Tszyu victory provides a path to potentially reclaiming his status without having to settle the score with Spence directly. This tactical maneuvering is common among the sport’s biggest names, as seen when Anthony Joshua was offered a two-fight deal to settle heavyweight supremacy.
The boxing world now waits to see if Spence can defy Charlo’s predictions. Returning from a long layoff is never easy, especially when moving up in weight to face a disciplined technician like the Australian. Whether Charlo’s technical assessment of his rival comes true or Spence proves he still possesses the elite skills that once made him a pound-for-pound mainstay will likely be determined in the coming months.
