Australian boxing's most anticipated grudge match of the century ended in chaotic and controversial fashion on Friday night, leaving fans furious and the Tszyu family branding Michael Zerafa's actions as "cowardly". The highly anticipated showdown between unbeaten rising star Nikita Tszyu and his outspoken rival was abruptly declared a no decision before the third round at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
A Fight Stopped Short and a Crowd in Revolt
The domestic blockbuster, laden with years of personal animosity, came to a shocking halt following a series of frenetic head clashes in the opening two rounds. Ringside officials stopped the bout after Zerafa repeatedly told the doctor, "I can't see, I can't see", citing an accidental head butt as the cause. The announcement was met with a torrent of boos from the packed venue, with disgruntled spectators hurling cans towards the ring as Zerafa made his exit.
In a confusing post-fight interview captured on television, Zerafa appeared to change his story, insisting his vision was merely "blurry, but all good." He defended himself to the jeering crowd, stating, "I don't know why everyone's booing me. I didn't stop it, the doctor stopped it. It's not my fault." He later called for an immediate rematch, claiming he was ready to continue.
The Tszyu Family's Furious Reaction
The response from Team Tszyu was one of unbridled anger and disbelief. Nikita Tszyu, who looked on course for a dominant victory after a bitter build-up, was left speechless. "He pulled the pin on the fight. I'm honestly lost for words," Nikita said. He accused Zerafa of panicking after the clash and seizing an escape route, contrasting it with his brother Tim's legendary performance fighting blind with a severe cut against Sebastian Fundora in Las Vegas in 2024.
Tim Tszyu, a former world champion, entered the ring to confront Zerafa directly, mocking him as a "pussy" and condemning what he called a "cowardly act". The bad blood runs deep, stemming from Zerafa's late withdrawal from a scheduled fight with Tim during the COVID-19 pandemic, an act the family has never forgiven.
Fallout and an Uncertain Future
The messy aftermath has thrown the future of the rivalry into doubt. No Limit Boxing boss George Rose offered a terse apology to the crowd and seemed exasperated when questioned about a potential rematch, stating, "Ask me this question? Oh, look. We'll talk about it tomorrow."
Nikita Tszyu revealed the depth of the family's anger, noting that while their long-time manager Glen Jennings was "pissed", he and his brother were "downright livid". The event, meant to finally settle a long-running score, has instead left Australian boxing with a bitter taste and a major unresolved feud, as fans and fighters alike are left wondering if they will ever see the conclusive battle they paid for.
