‘I’m here to take my throne back’: Tszyu looks forward to upcoming shot at world title

Tim Tszyu expects his comeback to world champion status will be even better than when he first became a titleholder.

With Tim Tszyu officially scheduled to face Bakhram Murtazaliev for the IBF world title on Oct. 20, he takes some time to talk about this fight coming off the heels of an unfortunate loss to Sebastian Fundora. Check out some of what Tszyu had to say about his road back to championship status.

Tszyu on this upcoming opportunity to become a two-time champion

“It’s definitely a good story and the comeback is always sweeter, so I’m in a different frame of mind and it’s exciting.

“This camp, for me, reminds me of the Jeff Horn camp and it’s like, how can I say, rejuvenation. A small team escaping home and just coming here and just solely focusing on what lies ahead. And I haven’t been home for a long time. I’ve been home for like six weeks this year, so I haven’t been home for much. Hopefully — well not hopefully — everything will pay off in the end.”

On facing Murtazaliev

“The soviet school is one of the best styles in the world. I come from that type of background myself, growing up in a Russian household. So I know what he brings, I know the style that he is, and it’s tough but doesn’t bother me. I’m here to take my throne back.”

On his plans from now until fight night

“Just going to be grinding, man. Quite simple. Boxing, it’s a simple sport, just keep grinding. A couple bruises to the face, couple bruises to the body — all part of the plan. And the come fight night we do the opposite and we cause damage.”