Errol Spence Jr.’s punch resistance and preparation for his comeback have been verified by sparring partner Brian Mendoza. Ahead of his bout with Tim Tszyu, Mendoza confirmed Spence is making tactical adjustments and is not simply collecting a final paycheck.
Brian Mendoza, who has recent in-ring experience with both main event fighters, provides a critical assessment of Errol Spence Jr.’s condition following a three-year absence. Questions have persisted regarding the 36-year-old’s durability since his ninth-round stoppage loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023, but Mendoza’s first-hand account suggests a focused and adaptable fighter. He highlighted Spence’s capacity for rapid technical correction, a trait stemming from his high-IQ amateur pedigree. Mendoza explained the speed of these adjustments: “I was catching him with shots the first day we sparred. The second day we sparred, those shots were not landing,”
This ability to nullify an opponent’s success from one session to the next points to a fighter still operating at a high cognitive level, rather than one relying on past habits. Mendoza directly challenged the narrative that Spence is treating this return as a mere cash-out opportunity. “For those of you that think he’s done, that he’s just showing up for a paycheck… he’s not working like someone who’s showing up for a paycheck,” he stated. This sentiment was supported by his observations in camp. “The work ethic I got to see in the couple of weeks I was in camp, and just from being in the ring with him… there were adjustments every day. He’s not someone that’s just showing up.” Crucially, Mendoza, who lost a decision to Tszyu in 2023, also addressed the primary physical concern surrounding Spence. “I did check Spence’s punch resistance—I can definitely say I sent some missiles his way—and I honestly feel like he responded well.”
The 158-pound catchweight bout on July 25 is a critical juncture for both competitors. Spence aims to prove he remains an elite force after his long layoff and title loss. Tszyu, meanwhile, is attempting to rebound from his own recent defeats to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev, which have cast doubt on his standing among the division’s top names. For both men, the fight in Sydney represents an attempt to reclaim their careers at the highest level.
