Australian boxing star and former world champion Tim Tszyu is officially returning to the ring.
The 30-year-old will make his long-awaited comeback on December 17, headlining a blockbuster card against unbeaten American Anthony Velazquez at the ICC Sydney Theatre.
A blockbuster card is also set to feature Australian star Sam Goodman and Callum Peters.
Velazquez, 29, enters the fight with a slick counter-punching style and an undefeated record of 19-0-1 (15 KOs). The Massachusetts native is expected to provide a serious test.
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Tszyu’s return comes after a turbulent 18 months in which he suffered three world-title losses to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev. Now, the Australian star is determined to rebuild his momentum.
He is currently training in Miami with famed Cuban coach Pedro Diaz, a veteran of more than 40 years who has helped shape numerous world champions. Tszyu says the partnership has been a revelation.
“I was looking for a Mike Tyson and Cus D’Amato relationship — someone you can look up to,” Tszyu told media last week.
Tim Tszyu leaves the ring after his match with Sebastian Fundora.Source: Getty Images
“Sometimes when the fire is burning out, you need someone to ignite it again.
“That’s who I got.
“He’s a real loyal, passionate, family-type man — and that’s what I am as well.
“We clicked straight away. I’m glad with where we’re at right now.”
Tszyu also admitted he had fallen out of love with boxing in recent years, but training under Diaz has rekindled his passion.
“Boxing is in my blood. I’ve realised it’s part of my DNA,” he said.
“The love I have for it, what it’s given me… the discipline, the life I’ve always dreamed about.
“I’ve embraced it. I’ve been watching old-school tapes, old fights — just really fallen back into the process and rediscovered the love for it.
“It’s a good feeling. The reason for it is being introduced to Pedro and his passion and love for the sport.”
Catterall sends him through the ropes! | 00:27
As part of his fresh start, Tszyu recently told Fox Sports Australia he is dropping the ‘Soul Taker’ nickname.
For his comeback, he’ll fight under a new moniker: ‘Phoenix’, symbolising his climb back toward a second world title.
Fighting just a week before Christmas, Tszyu will be aiming to deliver an early gift to all Australian fight fans.