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In the lead-up to their highly anticipated fight on Saturday at The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Tim Tszyu and Sebastian Fundora are feeling the pressure as they face off for the WBO and WBC light-middleweight titles. The prospect of fighting Terence Crawford, who is now the mandatory challenger for Tszyu's WBO title, has only added to the stakes of the bout.
Tszyu, aiming to defend his title against the late-notice replacement Fundora, recognizes that this fight represents the highest profile of his career so far. However, missing out on the undisputed title fight with Jermell Charlo, which he had long targeted, has only made him more determined to secure a date with Crawford, which he believes would be even more significant.
"The stakes are higher," Tszyu, 29, said. "A superfight’s on the way. Greatness and destiny awaits. He’s great. It’s undeniable, what he’s achieved – he’s great. You can’t lie about that. He’s a tremendous fighter, and what he’s done in his career is pretty crazy."
Regarding Crawford's potential move up to the 154lbs division, Tszyu believes Crawford has the skills and strength to compete.
"I don’t think he’s got a problem with that weight division – it depends who he fights," Tszyu said. "You can never underestimate Crawford, because he’s got the skills."
Reflecting on Charlo's decision to move up to super middleweight to fight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, Tszyu highlighted his own achievements at 154lbs.
"Last year proved that I’m the man at 154," he said. "I’m gonna keep cementing myself as the best 154-pounder alive. This is my division."