Tszyu Outpoints Spence in Sydney as Former Champion Retires
Tim Tszyu secured a unanimous decision victory over Errol Spence Jr. on Saturday night in Sydney, a result that prompted the 36-year-old American to announce his retirement from boxing. The judges scored the 12-round middleweight contest 117-111, 117-111, and 118-110 in favor of Tszyu, with both unofficial scorers agreeing on 117-111.
Spence, a former welterweight titleholder and longtime pound-for-pound entrant, returned after a three-year layoff and a two-division weight jump but showed clear signs of ring rust and diminished physical tools. He was slower than in his prime, unable to generate his accustomed power, and faded visibly as stamina issues compounded his difficulties in the later rounds.
Tszyu, now 28-3 with 18 knockouts, controlled the bout without applying sustained pressure, instead outboxing Spence over the distance. “160 is my new division and I feel strong,” Tszyu said afterward, adding that beating a great like Spence “tops any world title for me” and expressing his desire to challenge for another world championship at middleweight.
Spence confirmed his departure from the sport in his post-fight remarks, telling reporters he had answered his own questions and was ready to go home to his family. “I’ve got my faculties intact. My money is good and working for itself, so everything’s good, man,” he said, thanking God for leaving boxing with his health and family by his side.