As the countdown to their IBF championship fight continues, Tim Tszyu has expressed doubts about Bakhram Murtazaliev’s weight status. This highly anticipated showdown will take place on Sunday, October 20, in Orlando, and Tszyu’s words have drawn attention.
The Russian-Australian boxer revealed that he has seen Murtazaliev training intensely. In a recent conversation, Tszyu mentioned having spotted the champion running at night wearing a hoodie. This image has led some to speculate that Murtazaliev might be struggling to make the required weight.
Bakhram Murtazaliev, an imposing 183 cm champion, has stated his intention to move up a weight class after his fight with Tim Tszyu. In an interview with Main Event Australia, the Russian champion mentioned that he could face WBA middleweight champion Erislandy Lara next. This statement has raised more questions about his approach to weight and his preparation for the fight.
With a joking tone, Murtazaliev included UFC megastar Conor McGregor on his list of possible opponents. The champion referred to Tszyu as a boxer with “many mistakes,” underlining his confidence before the fight. Despite his light-hearted remarks, Murtazaliev made it clear that he is focused on defending his title.
As the fight draws closer, Murtazaliev has labeled Tim Tszyu as a fighter who “talks a lot online.”
The champion also emphasized that the presence of Tim’s father, Kostya Tszyu, will not affect the outcome. “It doesn’t matter who is going to be there. It makes no difference if Kostya Tszyu is there or not,” Murtazaliev stated.
Discussing his view of the fight, Murtazaliev pointed out that he has identified several openings in Tszyu’s fighting style. He also expects to add Tszyu to his list of victories, which includes 10 years of experience and 22 fights. “The easy option after this win would be a fight with Conor McGregor,” Murtazaliev joked.
However, the champion has more serious goals in mind. He has expressed his desire to unify belts and fight top names like Sebastian Fundora, Errol Spence, or Terence Crawford. He is also interested in moving up in weight to face Erislandy Lara.
The issue of weight will become more pressing this week in Orlando. According to IBF regulations, both boxers must weigh in twice, including the day of the fight. They must be within a 10-pound limit of the division’s weight for the bout.
In a conversation with Ben Damon of Main Event, Tszyu shared an anecdote about his observation of Murtazaliev. “It was 9:30 at night,” Tszyu said. “He’s probably making weight already,” highlighting that Tszyu is paying close attention to his opponent’s preparation.
When asked about the IBF stipulations, Tim Tszyu appeared confident. “I’ve done a little bit of training towards it,” he stated. “The morning of the fight I’m just a little over the rehydration limit so I’ll be sweet.”
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