Errol Spence Jr says he is still intent on securing a future showdown with Terence Crawford, but has warned he will have to move up in weight if a deal cannot be reached.
Anticipation has long been building for a unification clash between WBC and IBF welterweight champion, Spence (27-0, 21 KOs) and WBO titlist, Crawford (37-0, 28 KOs).
‘The Truth’ will first face eight-division world champion and future Hall of Famer, Manny Pacquiao in an eagerly-anticipated meeting on August 21st in Las Vegas and is then eyeing his compatriot.
“I definitely want that fight, and we’ve just got to make it happen,” Spence told SHOWTIME’s Brian Custer on Saturday night.
“It’s for his guys and my guys to talk to each other and see if it can happen.
“If it can’t happen, I’ve got to move up.”
A major stumbling block separating the undefeated pair from crossing paths would appear to be the fact they are both with different promoters and networks.
Spence is signed with Al Haymon’s Premier Boxing Champions and fights on FOX, whilst ‘Bud’ is aligned with Top Rank and ESPN, although his deal with Bob Arum’s company reportedly ends in October, with no indication yet as to whether he will renew his contract.
The American world champions were embroiled in a war of words over social media at the start of the year, which only increased the apprehension to see two, consensus pound-for-pound stars meet in the ring.
Crawford, 33, has not fought since making a fourth defence of his belt with a fourth round stoppage win over former titlist, Kell Brook in November and was reportedly negotiating a fight with Pacquiao to be staged in the UAE in June, although this collapsed when funding from Abu Dhabi investors never came through, according to Mike Coppinger.
Spence returned after a lay-off following a horrific car crash to see off Danny Garcia by unanimous decision in November.
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The 31-year-old came face-to-face with Pacquiao at a press conference in Los Angeles on July 11th and the Texan is confident of securing a 28th straight win.
