Zerafa says the fight is a reflection of where he believes he currently stands in his career, emphasizing preparation and clarity rather than reputation. “I feel like this is the best Michael Zerafa you’ll see,” he said. “Nikita is hot and cold. Sometimes he’s on, sometimes he’s off and you never know what’s going to get Nikita fired up, but I think he’s a hungry kid. My name for him is a world title fight.”
He also addressed expectations surrounding the outcome. “I know people want Nikita to knock me out, but I intend to do the same. Either way, someone will be looking up at the roof,” Zerafa said, before adding that his focus remains on execution and sticking to his game on the night.
Tszyu, on the other hand, describes the fight as an important step in his development, acknowledging the experience gap while welcoming the challenge. “It’s a big fight for me,” he said. “This is a moment where I can elevate myself and I’m fighting one of the toughest opponents in the country.”
He also reflected on past tensions, including earlier comments involving his father, Kostya Tszyu, and how his approach has changed over time. “At that moment I was still young and naive, emotions got the better of me,” said Tszyu. “I’ve grown up now and I know not to let those things control your actions.”
In discussing career position, Tszyu pointed to contrasting stages. “He’s accomplished a lot,” he said. “He has reached the pinnacle of challenging for a world title … I have yet to experience it. I am still on the rise.”
As fight week approaches, the confirmed details shape what both men see as an important reference point. For Zerafa, this is another chapter in a long domestic career. For Tszyu, it’s a chance to measure himself against experience in an environment that will test more than just physical ability.
Fight card
Nikita Tszyu 11-0 (9 KOs) vs. Michael Zerafa 34-5 (22 KOs)
Demsey McKean vs Toese Vousiutu
Nelson Asofa-Solomona vs Jeremy Latimore
Stevan Ivic vs Liam Talivaa
Liam Wilson vs Rodex Cup
Preliminary Battles:
Max Reeves vs Sonny Abid, super middleweight
Billy Polkinghorn vs Jomar Paliwen, lightweight
Rahim Mundine vs. Geoffrey Matthews, middleweight
Blake Wells vs. Ainiwaer Yilixiati, middleweight
Jack Javed vs Zephy Vaotu’ua, super welterweight
