Australian super welterweight contender Tim Tszyu is charting a clear course for recovery following a challenging start to 2024. His path runs directly through Sebastian Fundora in a high-stakes rematch scheduled for July 19th at the iconic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. For Tszyu, this isn`t just another fight; it`s the central piece of what he terms his personal “Redemption Tour.”
After suffering consecutive defeats earlier this year – first against Fundora under difficult circumstances, followed by a loss to Bakhram Murtazaliev – the tough Aussie boxer returned to winning ways with a dominant performance against Joey Spencer back home. However, that victory, while necessary, hasn`t fully satisfied his drive to reclaim his standing. According to Tszyu, genuine redemption hinges on overcoming Fundora, the man who handed him his first professional defeat, albeit in a fight significantly altered by a nasty cut sustained early on from an accidental elbow.
“This is the main one,” Tszyu stated, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming clash. “This is the actual redemption and where it all begins. I’m back where I started.” His perspective echoes a fundamental truth often cited after setbacks: success isn`t defined by the fall, but by the resilience shown in getting back up.
Tailoring Training for a Unique Challenge
Preparing for an opponent as physically unconventional as the 6-foot-6 Fundora presents specific challenges. Tszyu and his training team, led by his uncle and trainer Igor Goloubev, have implemented tailored strategies. This includes bringing in sparring partners with comparable height and reach, such as the 6-foot-3 Mykal Fox, alongside other tall amateur boxers from New Zealand and local gyms. The training also involves techniques specifically designed to simulate punching upwards effectively – Goloubev is reportedly holding pads at an almost comically high level to ensure Tszyu is accustomed to the necessary angles.
The physical dimensions are one thing, but Tszyu points to Fundora`s relentless style as his primary asset. “His work-rate and his ability to throw punches non-stop… That’s the hardest thing to deal with because he’s a freak,” Tszyu remarked, opting for a blunt description of Fundora`s awkward and high-volume approach. He acknowledges that dealing with such an unconventional fighter requires a unique tactical discipline.
Mindset and Future Prospects
Despite the previous outcome and Fundora`s challenging style, Tszyu projects self-confidence. His focus remains on executing his game plan and maintaining mental sharpness. He understands the past cannot be changed but is determined to live in the present and shape the future outcomes. “I don’t need the past to be reminded, it’s about living in the present and fulfilling what’s going to happen in the future,” he affirmed.
A victory on July 19th would not only symbolize the completion of his immediate “redemption” narrative but would also firmly re-establish him at the elite level of the competitive super welterweight division. And looking beyond Fundora, a potentially familiar face could await.
Tszyu was originally slated to face former world champion Keith Thurman before Fundora stepped in on short notice for their first encounter. Thurman, who recently returned to action against Brock Jarvis (a performance Tszyu noted was “good” despite Jarvis not being considered “A-level”), remains a possible opponent. Tszyu confirmed that a fight against Thurman “is definitely potential in the future.”
The Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora rematch is part of a significant Premier Boxing Champions event. It precedes the highly anticipated return of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who faces Mario Barrios for a WBC welterweight title on the same card, adding further magnitude to the Las Vegas spectacle. The event will be broadcast on Prime Video Pay-Per-View in the US and UK.
As July 19th approaches, all eyes will be on Tim Tszyu to see if he can navigate the unique challenge presented by Sebastian Fundora and take the critical step needed to complete his journey back to the top.
Tristan Blackwood