The highly anticipated super-welterweight showdown between Tim Tszyu and Vergil Ortiz Jr, scheduled for August 3, has been canceled.
Tszyu, who looked like a character from a terrifying movie after his fight with Sebastian Fundora on March 30, is unable to participate in any competitions due to the severe and shocking cut he suffered against the tall Californian boxer. This injury has only added to Tszyu’s despair, as he had already lost his WBO 154lbs title in a close split decision. Today (May 31), Fox Sports Australia boxing commentator Ben Damon tweeted that the cut has not healed yet, preventing Tszyu from engaging in any sparring sessions for the next six weeks, which means he will be out of action until the second week of July.
Tszyu, who recently suffered a defeat against Fundora, received a setback as news broke that his upcoming fight against Ortiz Jr on August 3 in Los Angeles had been canceled. On the bright side, Terence Crawford will be challenging Israil Madrimov for the WBA super-welterweight title in the main event, accompanied by a lineup of talented boxers including Andy Ruiz, Isaac Cruz, David Morrell, and Andy Cruz. The Tszyu-Ortiz Jr bout was highly anticipated by fans and could have been a contender for Fight of the Year, but unfortunately, it will have to be rescheduled, leaving many disappointed.
According to ESPN, Ortiz Jr, who had several planned fights against Eimantas Stanionis in 2023 that did not materialize, may still participate in Turki Alalshik’s inaugural American promotion. The undefeated 26-year-old might potentially square off against Ukrainian Serhii Bohachuk instead. Bohachuk earned a shot at the world title on the Tszyu-Fundora card by decisively defeating Brian Mendoza and claiming the WBC Interim belt.
The super-welterweight division is constantly evolving and has established itself as one of the most challenging divisions in the sport. According to recent reports, Sebastian Fundora, the new unified champion, may potentially go up against former multiple welterweight titleholder Errol Spence in the latter half of 2024. Spence has been inactive since his significant loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023, where ‘Bud’ became the undisputed welterweight champion by defeating his long-standing rival in the ninth round.
