Australian boxing icon Jeff Fenech has tipped Michael Zerafa to hand Nikita Tszyu the first loss of his professional career - but with a major warning attached. Speaking ahead of Friday’s all-Australian grudge match in Brisbane, Fenech described the bout as one of the closest domestic headliners in years, giving Zerafa a narrow edge based on what he’s seen at his very best.
Fenech’s view is rooted in a long-remembered Sydney sparring session from years ago, when a young Zerafa impressed him ringside against then-prospect Daniel Lewis. According to Fenech, the skill, composure and overall ability Zerafa showed that day convinced him the Melbourne fighter could “beat anyone” if that version turns up on fight night.
That, however, is the caveat. Fenech stressed that Zerafa’s greatest challenge has often been consistency rather than talent. “The greatest Michael Zerafa I’ve seen hasn’t turned up a lot of times,” he said, calling that unpredictability the “scary thing” in a matchup that many see as a genuine 50/50.
Experience also plays a role in Fenech’s pick. At 33, Zerafa has faced elite names including Kell Brook, Peter Quillin, Jeff Horn and reigning WBA champion Erislandy Lara. Tszyu, six years younger and unbeaten at 11-0, represents Zerafa’s toughest domestic test - and Tszyu’s sternest examination to date.
Fenech believes the fight could hinge on who lands clean first as both men are proven finishers and betting markets reflect the balance, with odds virtually even. While a longtime friend of the Tszyu family, Fenech emphasised his respect for both fighters and said the outcome may ultimately depend on whether Zerafa can summon the elite form he’s shown only in flashes.
For Tszyu, the bout is about progression and control. He has acknowledged past trash talk from Zerafa once got under his skin but insists he’s now better equipped mentally. “I know how to harness those emotions,” Tszyu said, framing the fight as a chance to elevate himself against the most experienced opponent of his career.
Friday night settles a rivalry years in the making - and, as Fenech suggests, may come down to whether the best version of Zerafa finally shows up when it matters most.
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