Michael Zerafa Pulls Out Of Upcoming Boxing Match Against Tim Tszyu

The grudge match we've all be waiting to see is officially off - well, for now at least.

Michael Zerafa has pulled out of his upcoming bout against Aussie rival Tim Tszyu over concerns with the new COVID-19 restrictions.

The fight was scheduled to take place in exactly one week's time.

PA

Following the recent spike in coronavirus cases across Australia, states have announced increased measures to stop the spread.

With the fight happening in Newcastle, it's understood Tszyu has already left Sydney and set up camp there.

But in Zerafa's case, it's understood he's still in Victoria and his team have voiced their concerns with the travel restrictions ahead of the bout.

So with Zerafa out, it's expected Tszyu will now remain in Newcastle while promoters frantically search for a replacement opponent.

"The main thing is that this was always Plan Z," No Limit Boxing CEO George Rose told Fox Sports Australia.

"Tim's plan was always to get an international opponent. The timing of this fight works out well with what's happening with [Brian] Castano and [Jermell] Charlo.

"Tim's goal is a world title and that's the level that he's at. He's aiming for a world title, he deserves that shot, so if Michael Zerafa doesn't want this opportunity, he'll never get it again."

Zerafa made headlines last month after he missed his media obligations due to a reported illness.

The promoters reckon they smelt something fishy at the time and now they're starting to put two and two together following his most recent withdrawal.

"We believe, now, looking at it, the writing was on the wall over a month ago when Michael Zerafa hadn't said a word to the media," No Limit Boxing CEO Matt Rose said.

"He hadn't shut up for two years to get this fight, and then I think he realised he was in a real fight against Tim Tszyu."

Topics: Tim Tszyu, Boxing News, Boxing, Coronavirus, Australia, Covid-19

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry