Such unfortunate news for the boxing fans as many looked forward to one of the biggest fights of the year, Errol Spence Jr had to pull out due to a retinal injury. It was a week away from the fight itself, so the co-main event fighter Yordenis Ugas will step in and face Manny Pacquiao for the WBA Super Welterweight title
Spence discovered that he had a torn retina during a pre-fight medical examination by the NV State Athletic Commission in Las Vegas on Monday. He flew back home to Dallas, TX on Tuesday and will have surgery to repair the tear on Wednesday.
— Premier Boxing Champions (@premierboxing) August 10, 2021
Manny Pacquiao also sent his best wishes to the WBC and IBF champion.
I pray for a full and complete recovery for @ErrolSpenceJr.
— Manny Pacquiao (@MannyPacquiao) August 10, 2021
The WBA belt was held by Pacquaio after beating Keith Thurman, but due to inactivity inside the ring, the association decided to put him as champion in recess. So basically it was a belt that Pacquiao did not lose. Many fans would say that the fight will not be as big as the original booking but Yordenis Ugas is still considered one of the best in the division.
Yordenis Ugas is a Cuban bronze medalist and is currently the WBA champion, his last loss was against Shawn Porter but many thought it to be controversial. Ugas may not be in the pound for pound ranking but he is still a dangerous opponent to face. He is a much bigger opponent compared to Pacquiao.
It could also be a great fight for Pacquiao as he has been outside the ring for 2 years and this might be a tune-up fight. Not saying Ugas is not a dangerous fighter but Spence is considered by many as the best boxer in the division right now because he owns two major belts and the guys he has beaten.
Whoever wins the fight will also face Errol Spence Jr and it will be a unifying fight as well. It will potentially be for the WBC, WBA, and IBF belt which makes it an even bigger fight. Although one question lies if this will be the last fight for Manny Pacquiao? There are rumors that he might run for President in the coming election.
