The World Boxing Organization (WBO) mandated its newly minted junior-middleweight king Sebastian Fundora to initiate discussions with unbeaten sensation Terence Crawford, as the planned fight with Errol Spence Jr. was put on hold. The surprising triumph over Tim Tszyu not only came as a shock to the fans but also shuffled the deck in regard to the 154lbs division.
Crawford, a three-time champion, recently reaffirmed his status as a WBO “super” champion following his victory over Spence in July. It appeared that his sights were set on Tszyu for what many believed could be a box-office smash. However, Fundora’s split decision victory over Tszyu has left many to wonder about his next move.
The appeal of a battle against Texas’ titan Errol Spence Jr. cannot be dismissed. Since Spence is a significant part of the Premier Boxing Champions welterweight scene, such an opportunity would provide Fundora not just a superb payday but a promotion to headline a PBC main event aired on Amazon Prime Video.
On the other hand, the Tszyu-Fundora rematch presence is yet another dynamic one. Although Fundora’s promoter, Sebastian Lewkowicz, recognizes that a rematch contract exists, the timing remains ambiguous, pointing to a move to maximize advantages. However, one should proceed with caution, as the balance between remaining loyal to arrangements and taking advantage of upsides is delicate.
As the 20-day WBO negotiation deadline with Crawford approaches, the pro boxing community is keenly watching. Consequently, Fundora is not only deciding on his next bout but his career’s entire trajectory and legacy evolution.
Image Credit: PBC