However, excitement seems to go down when Spence Jr. had sustained a retinal tear, making him implausible to fight the “People’s Champ”, Manny Pacquiao.
Spence Jr. posted on Instagram how he was telling his doctor to fight Pacquiao, and he will get the surgery right after the fight. However, his doctor is not buying it. During his pre-fight medical examination, doctors have discovered the retinal tear and they have recommended emergency surgery.
Although many people were disappointed, still the Nevada State Athletic Commission regulations have reiterated that fighters should submit a dilated ophthalmological exam more than 24 hours before the fight. On the other hand, the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports opposed this, saying that there are state commissions that don’t require an eye exam.
If Spence Jr. and Pacquiao wanted to continue the fight on August 21, then they have to stage the fight in a different state. However, this would put Spence Jr. in danger. If not, then Spence Jr. has to endure a completed eye exam for a year.
Spence Jr. had mentioned that he come back from worse since his car accident in October 2019, making his physical abilities decline. As of now, he will be cleared for everyday routines until his recovery. He is now waiting for the doctor to clear him so he can make a full return inside the ring.