Nikita Tszyu will face unbeaten domestic rival Ben Mahoney in an IBF super welterweight title eliminator on August 26 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Tszyu is ranked sixth by the IBF, while Mahoney sits ninth. The winner is expected to move into position for a world-title fight against IBF champion Josh Kelly.
Watch Tszyu vs. Diaz highlights: Watch
The bout represents the biggest test of Tszyu’s career. He enters after stopping Oscar Diaz in May but believes Mahoney’s technical ability makes him a particularly dangerous opponent.
“Ben Mahoney is probably the most technical fighter I’ve ever had to face,” Tszyu said. “I’ve always viewed him as the guy I need to beat to get to the world stage.”
Mahoney has remained unbeaten throughout his 10-year professional career and most recently earned a narrow unanimous decision victory over Dan Hill in April.
“Am I ready for a world title? We’ll know soon enough,” Tszyu said. “For now, my full focus is on Ben.”
