WBC super welterweight champion Sebastian Fundora believes that ring rust and geographic hurdles will likely hamper Errol Spence Jr. in his upcoming clash against Tim Tszyu. Speaking to Fight Hub TV on July 10, 2026, the 6-foot-6 southpaw offered a candid assessment of the bout, explicitly stating that he favors the Australian to hand the former unified welterweight champion a defeat in Sydney.
Sebastian Alexander Fundora, who currently holds the WBC title at 154 pounds, noted that recent activity levels play heavily in his prediction. The champion cited Errol Spence Jr.’s long absence from the ring as a primary hurdle. “That layoff is going to show some,” Fundora remarked. “This guy’s been out of the circle for what, maybe three years? That’s too much time, and you know he wasn’t training.”
Sebastian Fundora analyzes weight class debut and ring rust
The logic behind the champion’s pick centers on the physical reality of a long layoff for a veteran fighter. Errol Spence Jr. has not seen professional action since his loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023. While Fundora suggested the layoff feels like roughly three years, the actual time elapsed is just under three seasons. Fundora argues that this duration is too long to remain elite while stepping up to the 154-pound limit.
“I favor Tim Tszyu,” the champion told Fight Hub TV. “He’s been more active. And they’re fighting in Australia. That’s a big factor. A huge factor. I don’t know if Spence has ever even been to Australia.” The logistical strain of flying across the world to face a highly motivated local favorite is a dynamic many stars find difficult. Fundora emphasized that while he personally returned successfully from a year-long layoff after a loss to Brian Mendoza, he remained in the gym—something he questioned regarding the Texan’s tenure away from the sport.
Evaluating the Australian factor at Afterpay Arena
The decision to hold the fight at Sydney’s Afterpay Arena (also known as Qudos Bank Arena) on Sunday, July 26, local time, places Errol Spence Jr. in unfamiliar territory. Tim Tszyu, the son of Kostya Tszyu, has established himself as a dominant presence in his home country. For a fighter like Errol Spence Jr., who has spent the majority of his career headlining major venues in the United States, the transition to the Southern Hemisphere is a significant variable that Fundora believes will influence the result.
While boxing experts often debate ring IQ and veteran savvy, Fundora focuses on the tangible disadvantage of being the away fighter. Having previously defeated Tim Tszyu by split decision in March 2024 and via seventh-round retirement in July 2025, Fundora and Tszyu have a documented history at the top of the division. The WBC champion suggests that Errol Spence Jr. may not have the conditioning required to withstand the pressure after such a prolonged break.
Impressions of Jaron Ennis and Xander Zayas
Beyond the upcoming Sydney clash, Sebastian Fundora addressed a recent super welterweight title fight between Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Xander Zayas. Fundora admitted he didn’t watch the full bout due to technical difficulties on the DAZN broadcast, but he saw enough to be entertained. He described the contest as competitive until it shifted in the later stages, eventually resulting in a victory for Ennis.
The champion expressed interest in a future unification bout, though he remains focused on defending his own title first. “I think a fight between me and [Boots] would be a great fight,” Fundora said. He believes his ability to switch between boxing and “banging” provides a stylistic advantage. He noted that while Xander Zayas is a great, smart boxer, he appeared uncomfortable when the pressure intensified, suggesting the conditioning wasn’t meant for a high-volume slugfest.
Defending the WBC title and future plans
Despite the public clamor for immediate unifications, Sebastian Fundora remains patient regarding his next move. He noted that in the boxing world, public sentiment shifts rapidly. He recalled how perceptions changed around his fight with Keith Thurman. On March 30, 2024, Fundora earned a unanimous decision victory over Thurman, yet he observed how fans can quickly transition from praise to criticism depending on the next opponent selected.
While contract negotiations often stall high-profile matches, Fundora stated he is not one to talk much until a deal is signed. “Until we sign that contract or anything becomes of it, we’ll let you know,” he said. He continues to monitor the division, including news that Andy Ruiz Jr. is reportedly nearing a comeback, though his priority remains firmly on his own 154-pound championship reign.
Broadcast details and confirmed Sydney undercard
The event in Sydney is co-promoted by No Limit Boxing, The Rose Brothers, Man Down Promotions, and TGB Promotions. It marks a critical moment for Errol Spence Jr. as he attempts to navigate a new weight class against a prime opponent. Fans in the United States can watch the event on PBC Pay-Per-View via Prime Video on Saturday, July 25. Australian viewers can access the broadcast through Main Event on Kayo Sports starting at 11 am AEST on July 26.
The undercard features several notable matchups:
* **Jermall Charlo (34-0, 23 KOs) vs. Koen Mazoudier (15-4-1, 6 KOs):** A 10-round super middleweight contest.
* **Stephen Fulton Jr. (23-2, 8 KOs) vs. Liam Wilson (18-3, 10 KOs):** A 10-round super featherweight bout.
* **Callum Peters (7-0, 6 KOs) vs. Koen Mazoudier (15-4-1, 6 KOs):** A 6-round super middleweight bout.
The outcome in Sydney will clarify the hierarchy at 154 pounds. If Tim Tszyu proves Sebastian Fundora correct, he reaffirms his status as a top contender for the WBC gold. Should Errol Spence Jr. overcome the ring rust and physical disadvantages, he will have successfully launched a new chapter in a career already defined by high-stakes victories. Regardless of the winner, Fundora insists he is ready for all challengers once his next defense is finalized.
