Errol Spence’s Own Words Explain Latest Tim Tszyu Weight Change

After admitting his body could no longer make welterweight, Spence will now face Tim Tszyu at the full 160-pound middleweight limit following another change to the contracted weight

Errol Spence Jr. recently admitted his body could no longer handle the welterweight limit. Those comments carry added significance after his team successfully pushed Tim Tszyu’s July 26 fight from a 158-pound catchweight to the full middleweight limit.

News emerged Wednesday that the bout had been increased from the previously agreed 158-pound catchweight after another request from Spence’s side. Tszyu trainer Jeff Fenech confirmed the change while discussing the final stages of negotiations.

“They’re wanting to go up two pounds, want the fight at 160,” Fenech told Fox Sports Australia.

Asked whether Spence was struggling to get the weight down after three years away from the ring, Fenech replied, “Who knows? But by July 26 we’re hoping Spence will be battling to get up.”

Spence had already offered his own explanation for leaving the welterweight division behind in a recent interview with Premier Boxing Champions.

“Too old to get to 47. I mean, I’ve been at 47 for a long time and sucking down to that weight. My body not letting me do that anymore. And I feel like 158, 154 is more of my natural weight. And I feel a lot stronger, a lot faster, and just a lot there mentally.”

Those comments now provide additional context to the latest weight change. Spence said he felt strongest at 154 and 158 pounds, but his camp has since secured another increase, with the fight now set for the full 160-pound middleweight limit.

The latest adjustment is also the second concession made by Tszyu’s side during negotiations. Team Tszyu initially wanted the fight contested at the 154-pound junior middleweight limit before agreeing to a 158-pound catchweight after lengthy discussions. Less than two weeks before fight night, the contracted weight has now been raised again.

The move means Tszyu will compete at the heaviest weight of his professional career, while Spence’s comeback will take place well above the division where he established himself as one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters.