'He went running last time': Tim Tszyu accuses likely next rival of ducking as comeback fight confirmed
Tim Tszyu will make his return to the ring on Australian soil once more on September 22, in an IBF title eliminator.
The star fighter and promoters No Limit made the announcement on Thursday, although an opponent is yet to be finalised.
Among those mentioned as possible opponents are Americans Erickson Lubin, Jesus Ramos, Xander Zayas and Jack Culcay.
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Lubin was initially meant to take on Tszyu in March, but that opportunity was then passed on to Keith Thurman, before Sebastian Fundora filled the void after Thurman pulled out injured.
"Everyone knows what happened last time. He did the Charlo," Tszyu said. "I was waiting for him.
Tim Tszyu battles against Sebastian Fundora during their 12-round title fight at T-Mobile Arena. Steve Marcus via Getty Images
"I was prepping for him. A lot of people talk the talk but when it's up to getting it done, they end up running.
"We're the two top boys in the division IBF and hope we can get it on. Let's see if he accepts that's the real question."
Asked if he had a direct message for Lubin, Tszyu said: "It's real simple I just want to fight. I want to get it on. For me this is a long time out of the ring and I've been edging to get back out there. This cut doesn't help either.
"If Lubin doesn't get cold feet and accepts we've got unfinished business. I've got nothing but respect for the bloke besides the fact he went running last time."
The winner will be mandated to fight undefeated Russian Bakhram Murtazaliev, who has held the title since he defeated Jack Culcay in April.
Lubin Erickson (L) and Jesus Ramos battle earlier this year. Getty
Tszyu will leave for a US training camp this week in preparation for the bout, alongside brother Nikita, who takes on Koen Mazoudier in late August.
"It's not re-announcing myself to the world again it's taking my throne back," Tim said.
"The division is scattered at the moment with belts everywhere. I was on the trajectory of being at the top but these things happen.
"It's now my job to get that throne back one-by-one, fight by fight. I'm not going to sit there and wait, I'm going to go out and grab these fights."
