Tim Tszyu’s newly appointed coach, Pedro Diaz, has fired back at criticism from Australian boxing legend Jeff Fenech, claiming he is unfamiliar with Fenech’s reputation. Diaz also challenged his detractors to present their own coaching credentials. Arriving in Sydney just eight weeks after first working with Tszyu in Miami, Diaz is set to guide the Australian boxer in his much-anticipated comeback against Anthony Velazquez.
The upcoming bout between Tszyu and Velazquez is scheduled for December 17 at 7pm AEDT, where Tszyu aims to reignite his career against the undefeated American. The event is available for viewing on Main Event via Kayo Sports.
Despite Diaz’s impressive coaching background, which boasts 22 Olympic champions, he has faced criticism from several quarters, including Hall of Famer Fenech and Velazquez’s coach, Hector Bermudez. Fenech has publicly criticized the training footage emerging from Tszyu’s camp, describing it as “worse than anything I’ve seen.”
Pedro Diaz’s Response to Criticism
In a candid response to Fenech’s remarks, Diaz, speaking through an interpreter, questioned Fenech’s identity and dismissed the notion that he was not training Tszyu differently from his previous coach. “Before Tim was with someone else, now he is with Pedro Diaz,” he stated. “I have to look at the story from here on.”
Diaz emphasized his track record, stating,
“I’ve had God’s blessing to work with 22 Olympic champions, and 22 professional world champions. If my mitts are not good, those are the results.”
He challenged his critics to present their own results in comparison.
Background and Context
Diaz’s arrival in Sydney comes shortly after he cornered Armenia’s Noel Mikaeljan to a WBC cruiserweight title victory in Los Angeles. This has led to further criticism from Bermudez, who questioned Diaz’s commitment to Tszyu due to his late arrival. Bermudez labeled Diaz’s involvement as a potential detriment to Tszyu’s career.
Responding to Bermudez, Diaz maintained, “I try to do everything correct, or I don’t do it. What is important to me, is what I do in growing the person.” He added that his focus remains on victory, undeterred by external opinions.
Future Prospects and Unification Hopes
Amidst the ongoing debate, there are suggestions that Diaz and Team Tszyu could be involved in a significant unification bout against Australia’s Jai Opetaia. However, Diaz indicated that no agreements have been finalized, stating, “Professional boxing is a business. Everything is on the table and the people who have to do the business will do it or not do it.”
As for Tszyu’s potential to become his next world champion, Diaz emphasized a step-by-step approach, expressing confidence in Tszyu’s abilities to demonstrate his skills in the upcoming fight.
Comparisons and Training Philosophy
Diaz’s coaching journey with Tszyu has drawn comparisons to his work with Miguel Cotto, who achieved notable victories under Diaz’s guidance. Reflecting on this, Diaz remarked, “When Cotto came to me, a lot of people didn’t trust his decision. But if you review Cotto’s career, two of his biggest fights were with me – [Antonio] Margarito and Mayweather.”
Addressing Tszyu’s training, Diaz highlighted a comprehensive approach, focusing on physical, tactical, and mental aspects. He reassured that any changes in Tszyu’s defense would be evident in the ring.
Looking Ahead to the Fight
As the fight against Velazquez approaches, Diaz remains focused on preparation and victory. “We know that Tim is a great warrior and a great boxer,” he stated. “In the ring, the punches will talk.”
With the spotlight on Tszyu’s comeback, the boxing community eagerly anticipates whether Diaz’s training methods will lead to a triumphant return for the Australian fighter. As the countdown to the bout continues, all eyes will be on Tszyu to see if he can rise to the occasion and reclaim his standing in the boxing world.
