Errol Spence Jr., the former welterweight world champion, lost his comeback fight to Tim Tszyu by unanimous decision at Afterpay Arena in Sydney on Sunday, July 26, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The judges scored 118-110, 117-111, and 117-111 all in favor of Tszyu, who displayed growing confidence and power throughout the 12-round middleweight bout [1, 2, 3, 4]. Some observers thought the fight was closer, but official scores favored Tszyu clearly [3].
Spence, 36, announced his immediate retirement following the defeat, confirming pre-fight signals from his trainer Ronald Shields that he would retire if he lost [1, 2, 3]. Spence said, "I think yeah, for sure. I've got my faculties intact. My money is good at working for itself. Everything's good, man. I've got a beautiful family, and I thank God I'm gracious to leave this sport with my faculties intact and my family still by my side" [1]. He added it was time to "go home with my family and start a new life" after a great career [2].
Spence had held the WBA, WBC, and IBF welterweight belts prior to suffering a ninth-round TKO loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023 [1, 5, 3]. Between that loss and the Tszyu fight, Spence took nearly three years off following a serious car accident [2, 5, 3]. His professional record now stands at 28 wins and 2 losses, with 22 knockouts [3].
Tszyu improved his own record to 28 wins and 3 losses, including 18 knockouts, with the win over Spence [2, 3, 4]. The Australian boxer had previously lost three recent world title fights but showed the ability to rise against a top-tier opponent [2, 5, 4]. Tszyu said, "I had sleepless nights thinking about, 'What am I going to feel like facing a legend like that?' But it was one hell of a show, and I understand why he's one of the greats. I'd love to fight for a title. That's what I'm aiming for. But I've got to say beating a great like Errol Spence tops a world title" [1].
Tszyu’s promoter and manager indicated his next fight could be against reigning WBA middleweight champion Erislandy Lara or contender Jermell Charlo, with a Sydney bout a possibility. No Limit CEO George Rose said, "I think the Lara fight should be next. I'd love to make it happen here in Sydney or in Australia in general. I think he's ready for it. If he believes he can do it, I do too. He's fought for world titles before and I'd love to make it happen" [4].
The fight marked an end to Spence’s career in professional boxing, concluding a run that once included an undefeated streak of 28-0 before his first loss. Tszyu is now focused on a world title opportunity following his victory over the former champion [2, 4].
