Nikita Tszyu has called for Michael Zerafa to retire from boxing following their tumultuous encounter, expressing concerns over Zerafa’s well-being and warning that continued fighting could lead to unnecessary harm. The bout, which was highly anticipated in Tszyu’s career, ended in controversy as Zerafa claimed impaired vision due to a head clash.
The incident unfolded during a grudge match that quickly descended into chaos, leaving Tszyu feeling “let down” by the outcome. In the aftermath, Tszyu, also known as ‘The Butcher’, made it clear that he has no interest in a rematch and instead hopes Zerafa will contemplate retirement.
Tszyu’s Concerns Over Zerafa’s Career
Speaking at a press conference, Tszyu emphasized the importance of Zerafa’s health over his boxing career. “At this point, you don’t need to keep fighting,” he stated. “You don’t need to keep proving yourself. He’s had a great career, he’s done a lot in sport, but I don’t think he’s mentally there anymore – and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
Tszyu further elaborated on the psychological toll that boxing can take, noting, “It happens with the hard fights you get into and the traumatic side of boxing. While you still have your brain cells. While you’re still healthy, get out.”
Speculations on Zerafa’s Intentions
Tszyu suggested that Zerafa might have been contemplating his exit from the sport even before the fight. When questioned about Zerafa potentially seeking a way out of the match via a doctor’s stoppage, Tszyu explained, “No, I don’t think he was looking for it, but once he saw it he couldn’t unsee it.”
Reflecting on the fight’s dynamics, Tszyu remarked, “I think he knew after those first two rounds… I was putting pressure on him and he was on the backfoot for pretty much the whole fight. And when it did get in close, I was playing rough with him.”
Reactions from the Boxing Community
Tszyu’s comments echo sentiments from other notable figures in Australian boxing, including Jeff Fenech and Tszyu’s manager Glen Jennings, who have also urged Zerafa to consider stepping away from the ring. Jennings expressed that the controversial end to the fight was a disappointment not just for Tszyu, but for all spectators.
Tszyu doubts whether Zerafa will compete in Australia again, citing potential risks for promoters. “Whatever promoter is willing to risk it [it’s a possibility],” he said, adding, “But I don’t see anybody wanting to. Too much of a liability. He made some really big mistakes. It’s a shame. He really screwed himself over.”
Contentious Claims and Tszyu’s Response
Following the fight, Zerafa claimed he had suffered a shattered eye socket and retina damage, assertions that Tszyu dismissed. “Yeah, my a**e,” he retorted, questioning the validity of Zerafa’s injuries. “A fractured eye socket puffs up instantly and his eye was good for a while. Show us the proof. I want to see x-rays.”
Tszyu, drawing on his experience, noted, “When Canelo Alvarez did it to [Billy Joe] Saunders, when Kirra Rushton did it to Tonga Tonotongo… it swells up like a balloon in minutes.” He added that Zerafa’s eye appeared normal in the change rooms post-fight.
Looking Forward: The Impact on Tszyu’s Career
Despite the unsatisfactory conclusion, Tszyu remains focused on his future in boxing. When asked if he felt robbed by the fight’s ending, he affirmed, “I do. In, like, a very shameful way. A lot of work went into that and it was just taken away. It was the biggest opportunity for me to really show myself, prove myself to the world.”
As Tszyu contemplates his next steps, the boxing community watches closely, eager to see how this incident shapes the trajectory of both fighters’ careers. With calls for Zerafa’s retirement growing louder, the sport awaits his decision, which could mark the end of an era in Australian boxing.
