The man who will guide the final few chapters of Errol Spence Jr.’s career could be Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.
From the very beginning, Derrick James and Spence were inseparable. When the former BWAA Trainer of the Year spoke, Spence listened. As a duo, the pair enjoyed a long unified reign at 147 pounds and were one win away from becoming an undisputed champion.
A setback against Terence Crawford in July of 2023 was thought to be nothing more than a speed bump. But, it was far more than that. Following his lopsided stoppage defeat, James sued his now former fighter for upwards of 5 million in what he claims are unpaid wages. While those legal battles continue, Spence is on the lookout for a new trainer.
Edwards, amongst others, is seemingly in the mix. Recently, the former No. 1 ranked welterweight, according to The Ring, was spotted with Edwards, leading to even more speculation. Although he’s all for it, the Philadelphia-based trainer doesn’t want fans and media members to start jumping to conclusions.
“Nothing has been decided,” Edwards told MillCity Boxing. “We’re just cool. That’s it. He was in Philly on some business and he just worked out at the gym but Errol hasn’t told me who he’s picking as a trainer. We just worked out together for a couple of days. I’m not saying I wouldn’t train him and I’m not saying he’s not possibly considering me but he hasn’t made a choice yet.”
Edwards has spent the last few years building up his stable of fighters. He currently has Caleb Plant, Julian Williams, Kyrone Davis, and a few others under his watch.
From a distance, Edwards has always been an admirer of Spence. He’s also curious to see how he’ll perform in his new weight class at 154 pounds. So, if he did decide to entrust Edwards with his career, it would be an honor. In terms of his game, there isn’t much Spence (28-1, 22 KOs) has to work on according to the longtime trainer. If their partnership were to become a reality, it wouldn’t be about the X’s and O’s but more so about what’s in between his ears.
“It’s little things I can tweak but he’s already a tremendous fighter. The number one thing I think I can do for him is build up his self-esteem.”
Training Spence would bring even more fanfare to Edwards. It would also fatten his bank account considerably. But, it isn’t about that for Edwards. Having known Spence for years, there are no selfish motives attached to him. So, if Spence opts to go in another direction, the love will remain the same.
“That’s my guy, I like Errol Spence. I wish him the best. I’m never gonna be mad at him if he picks somebody else.”