Boxing news 2025 tim tszyu interview grandfather boris returns joey spencer fight 20250402 p5loq9.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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'He's my lucky charm': Tim Tszyu's grandfather Boris back on deck for must-win fight

Liam O'Loughlin
Liam O'Loughlin

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Tim Tszyu has confirmed his "lucky charm" will return for the must-win clash with Joey Spencer in Newcastle.

The former world champ is coming off two-straight losses, falling to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev last year.

Tszyu (24-2) is now looking to return to title contention, but standing in his way will be a tough American opponent on Sunday.

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Speaking to 2GB's Wide World of Sports Radio, the 30-year-old said claimed he's been ignoring the external noise and criticism as he prepares to return to the winner's circle in front of his adoring home fans Down Under.

Tim Tszyu at open workouts on Wednesday.  Getty

"I haven't really paid attention to it," Tszyu said.

"A lot of people buckle under the pressure, but from the start of my career I had pressure from fight number one ... you learn how to handle it. 

"I'm pumped and excited - there's so much on the line. It's another big step to where I want to go and I'm looking forward to Sunday.

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"What a buzz when you fight in Australia, they really get behind you and it's a big celebration on fight night. It's just a different feeling when I'm here."

The lead-up to the fight has been filled with drama after Spencer's camp threatened to pull out over judging concerns, but those issues were rectified on Wednesday.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 19:  Joey Spencer (L) and Tim Tszyu (R) face off during a media opportunity promoting the upcoming fight between Tim Tszyu and Joey Spencer, at Bondi Boxing Club on March 19, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

Tim Tszyu squares off with Joey Spencer.  Getty

The attention will now turn to what happens inside the ropes - but there will be a special inclusion for Tszyu when he steps into the ring.

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His grandfather Boris didn't fly overseas for the defeats to Fundora and Murtazaliev, but will be in attendance this weekend.

"It's a good feeling - he's only ever missed three fights and two of them were the ones from last year," Tszyu said.

"He's my lucky charm and I intend to get the job done with him there."

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