The road back to the top is rarely smooth, and for Australian boxer Tim Tszyu, that path runs directly through Sebastian Fundora. Scheduled for July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the highly anticipated rematch is more than just another fight; it`s the cornerstone of Tszyu`s self-proclaimed “redemption tour.”
Following two consecutive defeats in 2024 – first a controversial loss to Fundora where an accidental elbow caused a significant cut, then a subsequent defeat to Bakhram Murtazaliev – Tszyu is determined to set the record straight. While he recently secured a dominant victory over Joey Spencer back home, he remains focused on what he sees as the essential step to true redemption: defeating Sebastian Fundora.
As Tszyu put it, this upcoming bout is the undisputed main event of his comeback narrative. It’s about proving resilience, embodying the old adage that success isn`t defined by falling, but by the ability to rise again.
## The Specific Challenge of “The Towering Inferno”
Preparing for the unique physical challenge posed by Fundora, known for his extraordinary height and reach for the super welterweight division, requires unconventional methods. Tszyu and his team, led by uncle and trainer Igor Goloubev, have sought out sparring partners who can replicate Fundora`s dimensions. This includes working with taller fighters, even those naturally heavier like light heavyweights, and practicing striking targets held unusually high.
Tszyu acknowledges Fundora`s primary asset is his relentless, non-stop work rate. He describes it candidly, calling Fundora a “freak” in terms of his ability to continuously throw punches. Dealing with Fundora`s awkward style and consistent pressure is the main puzzle Tszyu must solve.
## Mindset and Future Prospects
Despite the challenges and the recent setbacks, Tszyu projects strong self-confidence. His focus is squarely on executing his game plan and maintaining mental sharpness. He emphasizes living in the present and preparing for the future, rather than dwelling on past outcomes, though the past clearly fuels his motivation for this particular rematch.
A victory against Fundora would not only serve as professional vindication but also dramatically elevate Tszyu`s standing in the competitive super welterweight division. It would place him right back into the mix for top opportunities.
One such opportunity that looms is a potential clash with Keith Thurman. The two were originally slated to fight last year, but Thurman withdrew due to injury, inadvertently paving the way for the first Tszyu-Fundora encounter. Despite the detour, a fight against Thurman remains a distinct possibility. Tszyu noted Thurman`s solid performance in a recent outing against Brock Jarvis, suggesting that a future confrontation with “One Time” definitely has potential.
The July 19 event featuring Tszyu vs. Fundora 2 is part of a Premier Boxing Champions presentation, airing as a pay-per-view on Prime Video in the US and UK. The card also features boxing legend Manny Pacquiao`s return against Mario Barrios.
For Tim Tszyu, however, all eyes are on the tall task immediately ahead. The rematch with Sebastian Fundora isn`t just the next fight; it`s the defining chapter in his quest for redemption and the key to unlocking the next phase of his career.
