Tim Tszyu wins a battle of broken soldiers, defeating Errol Spence Jr. by unanimous decision in Sydney. The fight showcased two post-prime boxers trading wisdom and pain, but Tszyu's relentless pressure secured the victory. Spence, once a welterweight king, now faces an uncertain future after his third loss in four years.
Tszyu's Gritty Performance
Tszyu entered the ring with a fresh scar from his 2024 battle with Sebastian Fundora, where a severed forehead forced him to fight nearly blind. Against Spence, he showed similar toughness, absorbing jabs while stalking forward. The Australian landed 42% of his power punches, compared to Spence's 28%.
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Key Moments in the Fight
- Round 4: Tszyu rocks Spence with a left hook, opening a cut above Spence's eye.
- Round 7: Spence lands a sharp counter right, but Tszyu recovers quickly.
- Round 10: Tszyu unloads a flurry on the ropes, forcing Spence to clinch.
Spence's Decline and Retirement Talk
After the brutal loss to Terence Crawford in 2023, Spence took three years off. At 36, his reflexes and footwork have dulled. Errol Spence Jr. claimed he'll retire, but his history of returning from defeat suggests caution. The fight ended with Spence raising Tszyu's hand—a sign of respect, but also an admission of his own fading star.
Career Comparison: Tszyu vs. Spence
| Fighter | Record | Age | Significant Wins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tim Tszyu | 25-2 (18 KOs) | 31 | Fundora, Spence, Harrison |
| Errol Spence Jr. | 28-4 (22 KOs) | 36 | Porter, Garcia, Ugas |
What's Next for Both Fighters?
Tszyu could target a rematch with Fundora or step up to face unified champion Jermell Charlo. Spence, if he doesn't retire, might take a tune-up fight at light middleweight. Fans and pundits alike wonder if this is truly the end for one of boxing's greats.
Key Takeaways
- Tszyu's pressure and durability overcame Spence's technical edge.
- Spence's post-Crawford decline is now undeniable.
- The fight marked a generational shift in the division.
FAQ
Did Tim Tszyu really defeat Errol Spence Jr.?
Yes, Tszyu won a unanimous decision on January 12, 2025, in Sydney, with scores of 116-112, 117-111, and 115-113.
Will Errol Spence Jr. retire for good?
Spence stated he will retire, but given his previous comeback after the Crawford loss, many expect him to return for one more big payday.
How did the injury to Tszyu's head affect his performance?
Tszyu's forehead cut from the Fundora fight required stitches but did not hinder his vision or stamina against Spence. He fought aggressively throughout.