Australian boxing star Tim Tszyu has wasted no time declaring his next target, setting his sights firmly on Jermell Charlo. This definitive call-out follows a career-defining unanimous decision victory over former unified welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr. on 2026-07-26, a bout that ultimately sent Spence Jr. into retirement.
The win in Sydney cemented Tszyu’s status in the sport, and now he’s making it clear the long-awaited showdown with Charlo is his priority. Fans have been eager for this clash, especially after their planned 2023 fight fell through.
Tim Tszyu’s dominant victory over Errol Spence Jr.
Tim Tszyu’s performance against Errol Spence Jr. was a masterclass, securing him a resounding unanimous decision. The judges scored the contest 118-110, and 117-111 twice, reflecting his comprehensive control throughout the middleweight encounter.
The fight, held at Afterpay Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, marked a significant moment for Tszyu. It was also his first fight under the guidance of Australian boxing icon Jeff Fenech, whose influence as lead trainer was clear.
Moving up in weight for this pivotal contest, Tszyu showcased his power and ring generalship. The victory not only added a major name to his resume but also proved his capability to compete effectively in the 160-pound division.
Errol Spence Jr.’s emotional retirement decision
In the immediate aftermath of his defeat to Tim Tszyu, Errol Spence Jr. made the somber announcement that he was retiring from professional boxing. It brought an end to a tremendous career for the unified welterweight world champion.
Spence Jr.’s decision underscores the brutal realities of a sport where one defining loss can alter a fighter’s trajectory forever. His departure leaves a significant void in the welterweight division, paving the way for new talent.
The boxing world now reflects on Spence Jr.’s legacy, marked by impressive wins and undeniable skill. His retirement closes a chapter for one of the sport’s most respected competitors.
The Tim Tszyu Jermell Charlo fight reignites
Initially, whispers suggested Tim Tszyu might pursue WBA middleweight world champion Erislandy Lara for a December fight date. This would have marked his explicit ambition to become a two-division world champion, moving up from his WBO super-welterweight ruler status.
However, a recent clip, captured by Julius Julianis at a fan meet-up, revealed a dramatic shift in Tszyu’s immediate plans. The footage showed Tszyu pointedly crossing Errol Spence Jr.’s name off a ‘hit list’ before emphatically gesturing to Jermell Charlo and declaring, ‘he is next!’
This isn’t the first time Tszyu and Charlo have been on a collision course. Their highly anticipated bout in January 2023 was postponed when Charlo broke his hand during training. That history adds significant weight to Tszyu’s recent call-out.
Despite the long delay, Charlo himself recently revealed that discussions were underway to finalize a location for their rescheduled showdown. Both fighters seem intent on settling their long-standing rivalry inside the ring.
Middleweight division heats up with new challengers
For a time, the middleweight division was considered relatively quiet, but that perception is rapidly changing. Fighters like Tim Tszyu are moving up in weight, injecting new life and competitive energy into the 160-pound scene.
Tszyu’s successful jump to middleweight for the Spence Jr. fight signals his serious intentions for this weight class. It shows a strategic move to chase bigger fights and more world titles.
Adding another layer of intrigue, Charlo is also currently linked to a potential clash with Vergil Ortiz Jr. Ortiz Jr., a formidable talent, is preparing to be the latest star to make the transition to middleweight, creating a crowded and exciting landscape.
This influx of talent promises to make the division one of boxing’s most compelling in the coming months. Fans can expect a series of high-stakes matchups as these fighters jostle for supremacy and championship belts.
What’s next for Tszyu and the 160lb landscape
Tim Tszyu’s decision to pursue Jermell Charlo over Erislandy Lara speaks volumes about his ambition and strategic planning. A win over Charlo would not only provide immense satisfaction but also firmly establish Tszyu as an elite force in the middleweight division.
The ongoing negotiations surrounding the Tim Tszyu Jermell Charlo fight highlight the complexities of high-level boxing matchups. Factors like location, purse splits, and broadcasting rights all play crucial roles in finalizing these mega-bouts.
Should the fight with Charlo materialise, it promises to be one of the year’s most anticipated boxing events. It’s a clash of styles and personalities that could define the careers of both men.
Meanwhile, the potential presence of Vergil Ortiz Jr. in the middleweight mix adds another exciting dimension. His ascent to middleweight could set up future blockbuster fights, potentially even against the winner of Tszyu-Charlo.
The coming months will undoubtedly shape the future of the middleweight division, with Tim Tszyu positioned right at its epicentre. His bold call-out of Jermell Charlo ensures that all eyes will be on his next move in this electrifying landscape.
