Tim Tszyu envisions a fierce showdown with Sebastian Fundra in their eagerly awaited world title rematch set to take place in Las Vegas. With a “kill or be killed” mindset, Tszyu imagines Fundra lying defeated on the canvas. The Australian boxer, holding a record of 25-2 with 18 knockouts, will leave for the United States this Friday, eager to avenge his narrow split decision loss to Fundra (22-1-1, 14 KOs) from their fight last March, which took place in the heart of boxing in the U.S.
Tszyu has been given the chance by American promoters to reclaim the WBO super welterweight title he relinquished 16 months ago. After enduring a harsh knockout defeat by Russia’s Bakuram Murtazalyev in Florida last October, Tszyu understands that both his global reputation and career are on the line at the renowned MGM Grand (East) on July 20th.
“We’re on each other’s blacklists. Why should I be nervous? There’s nothing to fear,” Tszyu said. “He’s troubled me with a cut before, so he should be the one worried. Now that I’m fresh, everything changes—it’s more serious and tactical. He’s going to have a tough time.” Tszyu is fueled by strong emotions, focusing not just on victory but on decisively putting his opponent away, saying, “It’s the essence of this sport: kill or get killed.”
Both fighters agreed to the 2024 bout on just 12 days’ notice after Tszyu’s original opponent, Keith Thurman, suffered a bicep injury. However, Tszyu emphasizes that this time around, he had 10 weeks of solid training to prepare for the towering Fundra, who stands at 203cm. This height advantage is something Tszyu believes plays in his favor.
The 30-year-old has been sparring with similarly tall southpaw fighters in Sydney to prepare for Fundra’s unique style. “He was training for (Serhii) Bohachuk, an Eastern European fighter, and I brought a completely different style to the table,” Tszyu said. “No excuses this time; it’s not a stone left unturned.”
The former Australian WBO champion called 2025 his “Avenger” year, having successfully defeated rising American Joe Ispencer in March to earn a shot at his second world title. “I feel like I’ve regained momentum,” Tszyu said. “I need to prove myself even more.”
“If we rewrite this chapter, it will be an incredible story and that’s exactly my motivation,” he added. “It’s about the story, the fans in the US get it—they know what I’m about, and I bring it every time. This isn’t just for anyone; it’s about proving myself.”
Fan Take: This rematch between Tszyu and Fundra is crucial for fight fans because it promises intense action and high stakes, with both fighters hungry to assert dominance in the super welterweight division. The outcome could reshape the landscape of the sport, setting the tone for future rivalries and championship battles.
