Tim Tsyzu’s boxing career has been left in tatters after being handed a beatdown by Russian champion Bakhram Murtazaliev in the pair’s IBF super welterweight world title fight in Orlando.
Making his highly anticipated return to the ring for the first time since tasting defeat to Sebastian Fundora in March, Tszyu appeared uncharacteristically slow and sluggish, miles away from what many had expected to see from someone rumoured to be in line to fight some of boxing’s biggest names in 2025.
The Australian was knocked down three times in a brutal second round demolition, one that showcased Murtazaliev’s devastating left hook. The fourth time Tszyu hit the canvas, early in the third round, forced his corner to wave the white flag and concede defeat.
“Every time I step into the ring, I’m willing to die in here. Things didn’t go to plan [and] the better man won tonight,” said Tszyu, moments after the fight had ended. “After the first shot, things didn’t go according to plan. That’s boxing. You get hit and your reactions are slower. I tried my best and these things happen. You live and you learn, right?”
More to follow…
