Tim Tzu's courage could have ultimately cost him in the worst possible way, as the Australian superstar faces the worrying prospect of being sidelined for an extended period of time.
In the bout, the Australian's first headlining bout in Las Vegas, the epicenter of world competition, Tse lost a split decision to Sebastian Fundora for the WBO and WBC super welterweight titles.
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Although Fundora himself fought valiantly and displayed a wealth of skill over a severely crushed nose, Tszyu was put in considerable danger by a waterfall of blood from an unusual cut, and was effectively blinded in 10 of 12 rounds.
The fact that Tszyu was able to convince one judge that he won the fight despite being severely handicapped for much of the fight has rival promoters trying to run in the opposite direction.
Officials argue that Tszyu poses too much of a risk for the division's main players, including Errol Spence Jr., Terrence Crawford and Danny Garcia.
Additionally, the fact that Tse no longer has a belt means he is no longer in a position to dictate when he wants to fight, and an elite group now chooses Australians to fight solely on the basis of their reputation in the fight. I see him as too dangerous an opponent. line.
And don't forget the economic impact. U.S. broadcasters and promoters stand to lose millions of dollars if one of their biggest attractions is lost to Tszyu, who has less international standing.
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Before the fight with Fundora, the namesake and his camp, who were chasing a mega-fight against the then-WBO super welterweight champion, seemed to mention Tszyu's name every chance they got.
But then the phone went out and Tszyu was left in limbo for a long time, with officials admitting it could be up to 12 months before he steps back into the ring.
This is the worst possible scenario for Tszyu, a fighter who has overcome the lack of exercise bug that Spence Jr., Crawford and Garcia all suffered.
Spence Jr. has only fought three times in the past four years, while Crawford tends to compete solo each year.
As for Garcia, his last fight was in July 2022.
By comparison, Tszyu fought three times in 2021 and 2023.
Aside from the trio mentioned, Tszyu has a rematch clause with Fundora, but that fight could be some time away.
Fundora required surgery to repair a broken nose and was given a nine-month medical suspension by the WBO.
Still, Fundora has been ordered by the WBO to defend his title against mandatory challenger Crawford if he is able to return to competition or risk relinquishing it.
Asked about a rematch with Tszyu, Fundora welcomed the idea but insisted it would not happen in Australia as he currently holds two belts.
“Let's take a look, let's take a look.” Fundora said Against the Rope Boxing.
“I like it. I've got the title so I'll keep it in America and we'll see how it goes.
“We've got some big names like Spence, we've got some big names like Crawford. They're two of the best fighters in the world. The opportunity is great for us.”
It remains to be seen whether Tszyu's return will be against Fundora or another fighter.
But thanks to the sheer courage he showed against an opponent he fought just 12 days ago, that looks like it will be a while away.
