Tim Tszyu has secured a blockbuster world title eliminator in Australia, marking his return to the ring in a bid to reclaim his status in global boxing as it was officially announced that Tszyu will headline an IBF world title eliminator on Sunday, September 22, just four months after his first career loss.
While Tszyu’s opponent is yet to be confirmed, Erickson Lubin of the USA is a leading contender due to his higher IBF super welterweight ranking. Other potential challengers include Jesus Ramos Jr., and German fighters Slawa Spomer and Jack Culcay. Tszyu is eager for a rematch, especially with Lubin, whom he accused of dodging a fight earlier this year. "I just want to fight. I want to get it on," Tszyu declared, challenging Lubin to face him.
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The upcoming event will be Tszyu’s first appearance since losing his WBO title to Sebastian Fundora in a split decision in March. That bout saw Tszyu suffer a severe cut on his forehead, hampering his performance. The loss halted Tszyu’s plan to unify the WBO and WBC titles. However, he is now one victory away from a shot at the IBF title held by Bakhram Murtazaliev.
No Limit CEO George Rose mentioned that multiple locations, including Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle, Gold Coast, and Brisbane, are being considered for the event. Tszyu humorously added, "Whoever puts in that money!" Tszyu’s training camp will take place at the Split T Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, accompanied by his brother Nikita.
Should Tszyu win the September eliminator, he will earn the right to challenge Murtazaliev. Murtazaliev’s team has expressed interest in the bout but insists it must take place outside Australia, preferably in the US or Saudi Arabia. If Lubin becomes Tszyu’s opponent, it will reignite their rivalry, with Lubin previously denying withdrawal from fight negotiations, stating he is willing to face anyone in the ring.
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