Erislandy Lara, of Cuba, hits Michael Zerafa, of Australia, in a middleweight title bout Saturday, March 30, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
UPDATE: A shocking turn of events unfolded last night at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, where Michael Zerafa’s controversial fight stoppage against unbeaten star Nikita Tszyu has ignited outrage. Fans and Team Tszyu have condemned Zerafa for what they are calling a “cowardly” act after the bout was abruptly declared a “no decision” before the third round.
The fight, which was touted as Australian boxing’s biggest grudge match of the century, was halted when Zerafa, visibly distressed, told ringside doctors, “I can’t see, I can’t see,” following multiple head clashes in the first two rounds. Officials cited an “accidental head butt” as the reason for the stoppage, much to the dismay of the packed crowd that erupted in boos.
In a dramatic display captured live on television, Zerafa stated he couldn’t see out of his left eye. However, in a confusing post-fight interview, he claimed, “it’s blurry, but all good. Let’s go.” Zerafa later shifted blame to the doctor, stating, “I didn’t stop it, the doctor stopped it. It’s not my fault.”
The aftermath saw fans hurling cans at Zerafa as Tim Tszyu, Nikita’s brother and former world champion, confronted him directly in the ring. Tim did not hold back, labeling Zerafa a “pussy” and drawing comparisons to his own past battles, where he fought through severe injuries. “I just don’t understand the cowardly act,” Tim Tszyu told Kayo Sports.
Nikita Tszyu expressed his frustration, stating, “He pulled the pin on the fight. I’m honestly lost for words.” He emphasized how Zerafa seized an opportunity to escape the fight, despite the risks inherent in boxing. “It’s annoying that he saw the opening to escape and just took the first route out,” Nikita added.
The Tszyu family has harbored deep-seated animosity towards Zerafa, stemming from a previous withdrawal from a fight with Tim. After the incident, manager Glen Jennings expressed his anger, stating, “Zerafa’s been a pain in his arsehole for a very long time.”
No Limit Boxing’s boss, George Rose, addressed the crowd, visibly frustrated. When asked about a potential rematch, he replied, “Ask me this question? Oh, look, we’ll talk about it tomorrow.” The uncertainty surrounding Zerafa’s future in the ring hangs heavily over the situation.
As fans continue to voice their displeasure, the boxing community is left questioning the integrity of the sport and what this means for both fighters moving forward. The Tszyu family, fueled by disappointment and anger, is eager for a resolution, while Zerafa insists he is ready for a rematch.
NEXT: Fans and analysts alike will be watching for any official announcements regarding a potential rematch or further developments. The fallout from this controversial fight is sure to resonate throughout the boxing world.
