Tim Tszyu looks to become a two-time world champion at 154 lbs after losing his title in devastating fashion against Sebastian Fundora earlier this year.
The 29-year-old claimed his WBO interim belt following a decisive ninth-round stoppage victory over seasoned campaigner and former world champion Tony Harrison last year.
Then, after making a successful defence of his Trinket, the sturdy bruiser was awarded full championship status when he outpointed Brian Mendoza in October.
But now, Tim Tszyu comes off his first professional defeat in a fight that many believe should have been halted due to a gruesome cut he sustained above his forehead.
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Tim Tszyu will face IBF world super welterweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev
Tszyu, who has formed a working relationship with the PBC in recent years, will headline the promotional juggernaut’s first non-pay-per-view card on Amazon Prime Video.
The spectacle will take place at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, on October 17, with the undercard bouts yet to be revealed.
The Australian’s opponent, Murtazaliev, secured his IBF world title after stopping German veteran Jack Culcay on away soil in the 11th round of their compelling contest.
Boasting an unblemished record, the Russian, having only burst onto the world-level scene in his last outing, remains a relatively enigmatic customer but, evidently, carries serious power in both fists.
Tim Tszyu is done licking his wounds from Sebastian Fundora defeat
Of course, with his last fight effectively turning into a bloodbath after he was caught by an accidental elbow, Tszyu has spent the last few months – away from boxing – recovering from the mental and physical pain.
Seemingly, he is now ready to jump straight back into the deep end after proving his tremendous fortitude.
“At this level, you have to take everyone out and Bakhram is the next guy standing in my way,” Tszyu told Boxing Scene. “The world knows me, and they know what I’m about. I’m thankful to my team for putting me in this position to prove why I’m still the man at 154 pounds.
“Bakhram has what I want, and I plan on taking it from him in spectacular fashion. It’s time to become a two-time world champion.”