It’s here. After weeks of anticipation, Australian boxing fans are set to witness a thrilling showdown as Nikita Tszyu faces Michael Zerafa in a highly anticipated bout. This event, which has captured the nation’s attention, promises to be a spectacle of skill and rivalry.
The fight will also feature the boxing debut of former Melbourne Storm enforcer Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who is set to face off against another former NRL star, Jeremy Latimore. The event is scheduled for Friday, January 16, 2026, starting from 7pm AEDT, and is available for viewing on Main Event through Kayo Sports.
Fight Details and Viewing Information
The main card for the evening begins at 7:00pm AEDT for those in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, and the ACT. Fans in South Australia can tune in at 6:30pm ACDT, while viewers in Queensland can start watching from 6:00pm AEST. In the Northern Territory, the action begins at 5:30pm ACST, and in Western Australia, it kicks off at 4:00pm AWST. With a packed five-fight main card, the main event is expected to start closer to 10pm AEDT.
To catch all the action, fans can order the full fight card through Main Event on Kayo Sports. This service provides comprehensive coverage of the event, ensuring that viewers don’t miss a moment of the excitement.
The Fighters and Their Stories
Nikita Tszyu, the younger brother of world champion Tim Tszyu, steps into the ring with a legacy to uphold. Known for his aggressive style and technical prowess, Nikita aims to carve out his own path in the boxing world. His opponent, Michael Zerafa, is a seasoned fighter with a reputation for resilience and skill. Zerafa, often seen as a formidable challenger, brings experience and determination to the ring, making this matchup particularly intriguing.
Meanwhile, the debut of Nelson Asofa-Solomona against Jeremy Latimore adds an extra layer of excitement to the event. Both athletes transition from rugby league to boxing, bringing with them a unique blend of athleticism and competitive spirit. This crossover appeal is expected to draw a diverse audience, eager to see how these former NRL stars fare in the boxing arena.
Full Fight Card
- Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa – 10 rounds (Middleweight)
- Demsey McKean vs. Toese Vousiutu – 8 rounds (Heavyweight)
- Nelson Asofa-Solomona vs. Jeremy Latimore – 4 rounds (Heavyweight)
- Stevan Ivic vs. Liam Talivaa – 10 rounds (Heavyweight)
- Liam Wilson vs. Rodex Piala – 10 rounds (Super Featherweight)
Preliminary Fights
- Max Reeves vs. Sonny Abid – 6 rounds (Super Middleweight)
- Billy Polkinghorn vs. Jomar Paliwen (Lightweight)
- Blake Wells vs. Ainiwaer Yilixiati – 10 rounds (Middleweight)
- Jack Javed vs. Zephy Vaotu’ua – 4 rounds (Super Welterweight)
Implications and Future Prospects
The outcome of the Tszyu vs. Zerafa fight could have significant implications for both fighters’ careers. A victory for Tszyu would solidify his rising status in the boxing world, potentially setting up future high-profile bouts. For Zerafa, a win could reinvigorate his career, positioning him for more lucrative opportunities.
The inclusion of athletes like Asofa-Solomona and Latimore highlights the growing trend of crossover athletes in boxing, a phenomenon that continues to capture public interest. This development not only broadens the appeal of the sport but also introduces new narratives and rivalries.
As the boxing world watches, the stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these matchups unfold and what they mean for the future of boxing in Australia.
Stay tuned for updates and post-fight analysis as the evening progresses, offering insights into the performances and potential next steps for these fighters.
