Tim Tszyu wants another shot at a world title.
The Australian-born, former 154-pound champion lost his chance at becoming a two-time titleholder when he was
stopped by Sebastian Fundora on July 19 in Las Vegas.He bounced back nicely recently,
beating Anthony Velazquez by wide decision earlier this week in Sydney. Confidence restored, Tszyu (26-3, 18 KOs) is looking to regain championship status.
“Give me
Xander Zayas,” Tszyu said during the post-fight presser. “I just beat one Puerto Rican, let’s go for the main Puerto Rican.”
Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) might’ve heard Tszyu’s callout, but he has bigger fish to fry.
The Ring’s No. 5 junior middleweight and WBO beltholder has a fight lined up against
Abass Baraou, who holds the WBA strap, set for January 31 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Tszyu will have to play the waiting game, but he doesn’t want to stay out of the ring for too long.
“I want to remain active,” Tszyu said. “I just hate being out of the ring.”
Inactivity hasn’t been a problem for the former WBO titlist. Since 2023, he’s had eight fights. Although his recent form hasn’t been the best, going just 2-3 in his last five, he believes he’s getting back on track.
In addition to chasing another title reign, Tszyu wants the thrill of competing against the best.
“I worked so hard, and I’m happy with the win,” he said. “But I’m not satisfied. I want to get back in there with the big boys.”