Australia’s boxer Tim Tszyu has disclosed a remarkable body transformation as he prepares for his upcoming rematch against Sebastian Fundora. The fight, set for July 20, 2024, at the iconic Las Vegas venue, is pivotal for Tszyu, especially after he labeled his previous weight cut experience as “f***ing terrible.”
In a recent conversation, Tszyu discussed the adjustments he has made to ensure a more manageable weight cut this time around. With only a week remaining before the bout, he is already two kilograms lighter than at the same point in his last training camp against American prospect Joey Spencer. After a successful April fight where he dominated Spencer, Tszyu acknowledged the significant toll that the weight cut took on him, describing it as a “nightmare.”
Reflecting on his last preparation, Tszyu noted that he had returned to training shortly after his wedding to his partner Alexandra in December, which he now considers a miscalculation. He humorously stated, “I’m not doing that again,” emphasizing how the timing impacted his training regime.
Tszyu elaborated on his previous struggles, stating, “I actually just had too much weight to cut and should’ve had a weight loss camp first.” He admitted that the final stages of draining water weight were particularly challenging, leaving him depleted before the fight.
Insights from Alexander Volkanovski
As part of his new approach, Tszyu has been consulting with Alexander Volkanovski, the UFC featherweight champion, regarding effective weight management strategies. Tszyu expressed admiration for Volkanovski’s ability to handle weight cuts smartly, stating, “I’ve spoken to Alex, yeah. Because while every fighter does the cut hard, he also gets there smart.”
The benefits of this collaboration appear promising, as Tszyu now feels more prepared. He remarked, “I’m already two kilos lighter. That’s a lot. And it will make a big difference in fight week.”
The anticipation for the Fundora rematch is building, with Tszyu sharing the card with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, who is returning to the ring to face Mario Barrios. This high-profile event has attracted considerable media attention, with Hollywood stars like Russell Crowe and Chris Hemsworth expressing interest in attending. The ringside seats are priced as high as $12,000, reflecting the excitement surrounding the event.
A Chance for Glory
According to George Rose, CEO of No Limit Promotions, this fight represents a significant opportunity for Tszyu. “The Fundora showdown is a huge chance for him to become a two-time world champion and to introduce himself to a global audience,” Rose emphasized. The event is expected to attract millions of viewers, with many A-list celebrities in attendance, further amplifying the stakes for Tszyu.
As Tszyu puts the final touches on his preparation in Las Vegas, he is not only focused on the title but also on showcasing his skills to the world. He is poised to convert the attention of both fight fans and industry celebrities into a memorable performance on one of boxing’s biggest stages.
With a renewed approach to weight management and a clear mindset, Tim Tszyu is ready to step into the ring and make a statement on July 20.
