Following Tim Tszyu’s split decision defeat to Sebastian Fundora in Las Vegas, the boxing world stands deeply divided on what the future holds for Tszyu. In the heat of the aftermath, despite a potential rematch clause allowing him immediate redemption against the WBC/WBO junior middleweight champion, critics maintain there is no just cause for an immediate rematch. On the contrary, fans reportedly prefer fresh challengers for Fundora, with the possibility of blockbuster fights against welterweight titans Erroll Spence and Terence Crawford.
The possibility of a Tszyu vs. Fundora rematch has opened a wide range of possibilities. While some argue that a second contest without a serious change of strategy or pace may not be a top sell for the boxing public or do great numbers, others argue that Tszyu’s ambition to regain his WBO belt and rectify the wrong from last weekend might be strong enough to appeal directly against the fans’ opinion.
However, Fundora’s fight and scalp injury during the battle with Tszyu complicate things further. A possible rematch has been stalled due to extensive healing times, with neither party keen on Fundora waiting or the division being frozen. On top of Fundora’s immense physical superiority already previewed against Tszyu and the scalp injury still not being a factor, Tszyu stepping directly back into a rematch may not change the ultimate outcome.
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A possible alternative discussed pits Tszyu to allow Fundora to face either Spence or Crawford before challenging the victor. This move would not only maintain the division storyline without making a Tszyu rematch necessary but would also give the fans the finger-licking competition they crave.
Ultimately, Tszyu’s next move will be keenly watched as the implications will either encompass an immediate rematch or a step down from the similar trajectory that Tszyu has been on.
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