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Zerafa views this fight as a reflection of where he currently is in his career, emphasizing preparation and clarity over reputation. “I feel like this is the best Michael Zerafa you’ll see,” he said. “Nikita is hot and cold. Sometimes he’s on, sometimes he’s off and you never know what Nikita is going to do, but I think he’s a hungry kid. My name for him is a world title fight.”
He also addressed expectations regarding the outcome. “I know people want Nikita to knock me out but I intend to do the same thing. Someone will be looking to the roof anyway,” Zerafa said, before adding that he remained focused on the execution and his gameplay of the evening.
Tszyu, on the other hand, described the fight as an important step in his development, acknowledging the lack of experience while welcoming the challenge. “It’s a huge fight for me,” he said. “It’s a moment where I can rise up and I’m fighting one of the toughest opponents in the country.”
He also reflected on past tensions, including past comments involving his father, Kostya Tszyu, and how his approach has changed over time. “At that time I was still young and naive, emotions got the best of me,” Tszyu said. “I have now matured and know not to let these things control your actions.”
When discussing the professional situation, Tszyu highlighted contrasting stages. “He’s already accomplished a lot,” he said. “He reached the top fighting for a world title…I haven’t experienced it yet. I’m still on the rise.”
As fight week approaches, the confirmed details shape what both men consider an important reference point. For Zerafa, this is a new chapter in a long national career. For Tszyu, it’s an opportunity to test his skills in a setting that will test more than just physical ability.
Fight card
Nikita Tszyu 11-0 (9 KOs) vs. Michael Zerafa 34-5 (22 KOs)
Demsey McKean vs. Toese Vousiutu
Nelson Asofa-Solomona vs. Jeremy Latimore
Stevan Ivic vs. Liam Talivaa
Liam Wilson vs Rodex Cup
Preliminary fights:
Max Reeves vs. Sonny Abid, super middleweight
Billy Polkinghorn vs. Jomar Paliwen, lightweight
Rahim Mundine vs. Geoffrey Matthews, middleweight
Blake Wells vs. Ainiwaer Yilixiati, middleweight
Jack Javed vs. Zephy Vaotu’ua, super welterweight
