He’s one of the brightest prospects in the whole of boxing, yet undefeated American welterweight Errol Spence Jr, who was due to face Roberto Garcia on Saturday’s PBC Porter v Broner under card, is now facing a late change of opponent thanks to Garcia withdrawing from the contest at short notice late Wednesday.
Differing reasons have been given for Garcia’s withdrawal, from being too far over the weight to unforeseen illness, though it isn’t the first time the Mexican fighter has pulled such a stunt.
He was due to fight Shawn Porter back in March and pulled out last minute, leaving late replacement Eric Bone to fill the void.
A desperate scrabble has now begun for a suitable name to step in, with Canada’s Phil Lo Greco favorite to plug the gap.
Lo Greco has been training with Jessie Vargas ahead of his fight with Tim Bradley, though he hasn’t been active – with one fight in just 22 months, and it’s understood that the Nevada State Athletic Commission have concerns about approving him.
It’s difficult news for Texan southpaw Spence Jr, who is fast establishing an international fan base outside of his native US.
A decision on his expected opponent is set to be announced following a meeting between promoter Tom Brown and NSAC’s Bob Bennett later today. (Thursday)
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