Michael Zerafa threw his hat in the ring a few days before the scheduled return of Tim Tszyu and offered to replace Joey Spencer as the American walked away due to a judging dispute.
Spencer’s team is furious after hearing that all three appointed judges for Sunday’s main event will be Australian – something they claim violates the conditions agreed more than two months ago. Now, Zerafa said Fox Sports Australia He is ready to jump in as the fight collapses.
“There is a perception that everything is going Tim’s path,” Zeerafa said.
“If Joey Spencer and his team feel that the judging situation is not fair and decide not to go forward, I’ll be ready. Whether it is five days notice, or just one, if there is a chance to settle unfinished business, I step up – no hesitation. “
The unfinished business refers to their deleted 2021 collision, from which Zerafa withdrew during Covid Lockdowns. The step has caused heavy criticism, but the Melbourne fighter has since rebuilt his reputation and fought on Tszyu’s under map in Las Vegas. Now he looks at the chance to finally get Tszyu in the ring – under extreme circumstances.
The Judgment of Bomb Shot Shake Tszyu-Pencer Fight Week
Joey Spencer’s camp was blinded by a sudden and unexpected change in the judging team for Sunday’s fight against Tim Tszyu – who spoke a few days before the attack on a possible withdrawal.
Spencer’s father and coach Jason Spencer said Fox Sports Australia That they are originally a judging panel consisting of one Australian and two international officials. Instead, this week they found out that all three judges would be locally.
“When we were offered this battle ten weeks ago, we promised a neutral judging panel,” He said.
“Now we’re told that all three judges are Australian. This is not the agreement. And to be told during the fight week – it’s completely unprofessional. ‘
Jason was quick to say that he did not accuse anyone of cheating, but the concern is clear: Even the appearance of homeland prejudice in a close struggle can swing the outcome unfairly.
“Judgment doesn’t have to be corrupt to be unfair,” he explained.
“All it takes is that one official unconsciously prefers a certain style, or one fighter looks more than the other. It can turn close rounds. That can change careers. ‘
Spencer Camp demands that Tszyu should push for fairness
What aggravates this controversy according to the Spencers is that Tim Tszyu accepted neutral judges for previous world title fights at home – including against Tony Harrison and Brian Mendoza.
“Why is that changing now?” Jason asked.
“Does Tim Tszyu want a fair battle?”
Tszyu remains scheduled from now on to stand AEDT on Sunday, April 6 at 11am, directly at the main meeting via Kayo Sports. But unless the judging situation is resolved, Spencer’s team can walk away.
And when that happens, Michael Zerafa says he stays with gloves.
Last updated on 04/01/2025
