It was the legendary Mike Tyson who famously said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” For Australian boxer Tim Tszyu, the reality is even more stark. “There’s never even been a plan,” he admits with a shrug. This candid confession comes as Tszyu prepares to face undefeated American Anthony Velazquez on December 17, aiming to reignite a career that has seen recent turbulence.
Tszyu’s journey back to the ring has been anything but ordinary. In the past two years, he has experienced a dramatic fall from grace, marked by three early-round knockdowns in his last few fights. “I’ve been dropped in the first two rounds three times now,” he reflects from his Rockdale gym. “That’s not a f***ing coincidence. That’s me not having a plan.”
Rebuilding from Within
Despite the setbacks, Tszyu isn’t pointing fingers at his former team. “I’ve got dropped because of me,” he insists, emphasizing personal responsibility for his recent losses. This introspection has led to significant changes in his approach to boxing. Tszyu has invested $50,000 in a new coach, left his personal life behind for two months, and even swapped his luxury car for a more modest vehicle, all in a bid to refocus on his career.
His upcoming fight against Velazquez marks the first time Tszyu will enter the ring with a detailed, round-by-round strategy. “It’s about rediscovering what has been lost along the way,” he explains. The changes are not just tactical but also mental, as Tszyu acknowledges the need for a shift in mindset. “I’m the one who made mistakes,” he admits, referencing his losses to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev.
The Diaz Influence
Central to Tszyu’s transformation is his new trainer, Pedro Diaz, a renowned Cuban coach known for resurrecting the career of Miguel Cotto. “Pedro has already mentioned the similarities between myself and Cotto,” Tszyu notes. The focus now is on fine-tuning his style to fight with intelligence rather than sheer power. “It’s about fighting intelligently, not getting emotional and sticking to a game plan,” he says.
Tszyu’s previous approach relied heavily on his natural abilities and athleticism, often leading him to fight impulsively. “I was unprepared,” he admits. “I’ve gone in cold and fought like a hothead.” This time, however, he feels different. “Pedro has a plan for everything. And a lot of decisions are science-based,” he shares, highlighting the strategic shift in his training.
Family Dynamics and Personal Growth
Amidst his professional challenges, Tszyu also addresses family dynamics, particularly concerning his brother Nikita. “We’re different,” he says, distancing himself from his brother’s antics. “We’re also our own people and fighters on our own paths.”
Despite the familial differences, Tszyu remains focused on his own journey. “This fight is for me,” he asserts, emphasizing the personal significance of his upcoming bout. The presence of his grandfather in his corner adds a layer of emotional support, as Tszyu has never lost with him by his side.
Looking Forward
As Tszyu prepares for his fight against Velazquez, he reflects on the journey that brought him to this point. “Nervous? Worried? Confused? Absolutely,” he recalls of his initial steps in America to find a new coach. Yet, the decision to invest in himself and his career has been reaffirming. “I’m not only a good fighter, I’m f***ing great,” he declares with newfound confidence.
Tszyu’s training under Diaz has not only improved his defensive skills but also reignited his self-belief. “I know exactly who the f*** I am,” he states, recalling a sparring session that solidified his confidence. With Diaz’s guidance, Tszyu feels ready to face whatever challenges come his way in the ring.
As for what happens when he gets punched in the mouth next Wednesday, Tszyu remains unfazed. “I no longer feel like a bull. I’m the matador,” he concludes, ready to reveal the results of his transformation on fight night.
