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Son of Texas Mail Handler Revives Olympic Dreams

Errol Spence Jr.

Errol Spence Jr.’s dreams of Olympic gold were revived early Saturday morning when Olympic Games boxing officials overturned the decision that gave Friday’s welterweight bout to Spence’s opponent.

Spence is the son of Debra—a Dallas, Texas, member of National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU) Local 311—and Errol Spence Sr.

The International Amateur Boxing Association ruled after a video review of the fight, Spence’s opponent Krishan Vikas of India had committed nine holding fouls in the third round alone and was only penalized for one. He also committed a second-round foul that was not penalized.  If the fight had been correctly judged, Spence would have easily won.   

Spence told reporters after he learned of the reversal,

I am obviously thrilled that the competition jury overturned my decision and I can continue chasing the gold medal I came here to win. I am going to make the most of this second chance that I've been given. I can't wait to get back in that ring on Tuesday.

In the quarterfinal bout, Spence, the top-ranked U.S. amateur welterweight, will face Andrey Zamkovoy of Russia. He is also the last member of the American men’s boxing team still in the competition. A victory over Zamkovoy will ensure at least a bronze medal.  

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