Super-welterweight world title contender Tim Tszyu will be out of action for two months following hand surgery.
The 27-year-old will be in Carson, California on Saturday night to take in the undisputed title rematch at 154lbs between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño. Tszyu, the WBO number one contender, could land a shot at the winner this year.
To ensure he is 100% for his first world title opportunity Tszyu has undergone a procedure to repair a problem with both hands that he has endured in his last few fights.
Speaking to Fox Sports he said: “So I just got out of surgery four or five days ago. It was from the last fight… busted my hands on the guy’s head!”
His last fight was his American debut in Minneapolis against former world title challenger Terrell Gausha. Despite being dropped for the first time in his career in round one the Australian bounced back to win a unanimous decision.
“I had tendon problems, a bit of a tear. I tried punching after the fight but couldn’t,” said Tszyu.
“I could feel it straight away, as soon as I took my gloves off. It didn’t really affect me, once you’re in the ring there are no excuses.”