A devastated Tim Tszyu vowed to “bounce back” after losing a bloody 12 round battle against Sebastian Fundora and congratulated his rival on becoming the “new king” of the super welterweights.
Tszyu began strongly in the opening rounds against Fundora and landed a sweet uppercut that snapped the American’s head back.
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However, Tszyu accidentally walked into Fundora’s elbow and sustained a deep cut on his head, causing blood to pour out of the wound and impact his fight.
Blood continued to trickle into Tszyu’s eyes throughout the bout, forcing the Aussie to contend with defending Fundora’s rangy strikes as well as wiping the blood from his face at the same time.
Ultimately it was a battle Tszyu could not overcome as Fundora secured a split decision victory to take home the WBC and WBO super welterweight titles.
Although Tszyu was understandably crushed at the loss, he remained optimistic about what’s next and declared his interest in fighting Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr.
“I told you I’m an old throwback fighter,” Tszyu said.
“I couldn’t see, but all credit belongs to the man who won tonight.”
When quizzed on the cut and how it derailed his fight, Tszyu was not one to make major excuses and felt it was all part of the fight game.
Tszyu pops Fundora in opening round! | 01:04
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“You know what, these things happen,” Tszyu said.
“The momentum was rolling, I was swinging hard in the first two rounds and then boom, you’re blinded completely.
“This is boxing, this is part of the sport. This thing happens.
“Congratulations to Fundora, he’s the new king of the 154 (pound division).”
As for what’s next, Tszyu said: “We’ll bounce back. The arena showed up. I showed up still. No matter what. I’ll always bring the fight.
“I was given one week, no excuses. I’ll fight whoever, whenever.
“Even Errol Spence is here, I’ll fight him. Even Terence Crawford. You want a good scrap? You know who to call.”
Speaking after the fight, Fundora heaped praise on Tszyu.
“Of course, he’s a world class fighter,” Fundora said.
“He’s a world champion for a reason.
“The way I won my belt, it’s an honour to share a ring and make history with him.”
Source Agencies
