Tim Tszyu navigated a bloody encounter to secure a unanimous decision victory over Denis Nurja on Sunday, April 5, reinforcing his position as a primary contender for a world title shot. Despite suffering a significant cut to his face, Tszyu maintained control of the bout, handing the Albanian fighter the first professional loss of his career.
The victory serves as a critical stepping stone for Tszyu, who used the contest to sharpen his striking and showcase a disciplined approach. While Nurja displayed commendable durability and a brave effort to go the distance, he was unable to neutralize Tszyu’s forward pressure and tactical precision.
The fight was defined by Tszyu’s ability to adapt. After the opening frames, he began integrating a heavy body attack from the fourth round onward. This strategy proved decisive, as Tszyu found increasing openings that left Nurja visibly shaken, particularly during the closing moments of the fourth and sixth rounds.
American boxing veteran Paulie Malignaggi observed that Tszyu appeared to be cruising for much of the night, suggesting the fighter may have been experimenting with his approach. Malignaggi noted that Tszyu did not seem to shift out of second gear, expressing a desire to see the Australian “rev it” further for the crowd’s benefit.
Tszyu ready for ‘big fish’ after win | 02:41
Eyes on the Spence Blockbuster
With the win secured, the conversation immediately shifted toward a potential $15 million blockbuster clash with Errol Spence Jr. Tszyu expressed his readiness for the challenge, describing a potential matchup with the American as “a banger.”
“Look, I feel like I am up for it, this guy was tough but I think me and Errol Spence will be one hell of a fight, it’s a banger,” Tszyu said. “You know what they say, catch the big fish. Lets go fishing.”
Logistical hurdles remain, however. While there are suggestions that No Limit could attempt to bring the fight to Australian soil in July or August, reports indicate that Spence would prefer the bout take place in Las Vegas or his hometown of Dallas, Texas. Spence responded to the call-out on social media with a dismissive tone, writing: “You think shit sweet I’m do you so bad!”
Asofa-Solomona’s Brutal Return
The undercard provided high-impact drama as Nelson Asofa-Solomona, the former NRL enforcer known as “Big Nasty,” secured a highlight-reel knockout against Jarrod Wallace. The contest in Wollongong began precariously for Asofa-Solomona, who was tagged several times in the first two rounds and suffered a deep cut to his forehead.
Asofa-Solomona later clarified that the injury was the result of a clash of heads rather than a punch, jokingly remarking that Wallace “tried to kiss me.” Despite the early scare, the 130kg puncher found his range in the third round, scoring two knockdowns before finishing the fight with a powerful right hand.
Following the win, Asofa-Solomona set his sights on George Burgess, claiming he has “spies” sending him workout footage of the former South Sydney premiership hero. Asofa-Solomona has positioned himself as the “crossover king” of Australian boxing, promising to put Burgess to sleep should the fight materialize.
NAS v Wallace: Fight Highlights | 04:47
Rising Stars and Bizarre Finishes
The event also highlighted the depth of the local talent pool. Callum Peters, a 23-year-ancient prospect, improved his undefeated record to 6-0 by stopping Delio Anzaqeci Mouzinho in under two rounds. Peters, who has drawn comparisons to Anthony Mundine, immediately called for a domestic middleweight showdown with Michael Zerafa.
Meanwhile, Paulo Aokuso claimed the IBF Pan Pacific light heavyweight crown in a highly unusual first-round finish against Thailand’s Kittipong Jian Hao Ho, also known as “Bangkok Thunder.” Hao Ho was dropped three times in the opening round, clutching a heavily strapped right knee after each fall.
While a No Limit official stated that the Thai fighter had suffered a torn ACL, Aokuso was skeptical, suggesting the injury may have been an excuse to exit the fight. Aokuso, now 9-0, has called for a light heavyweight clash with fellow rising star Kirra Ruston (8-0).
Full Fight Card Results
The evening’s results showcased a mix of tactical masterclasses and raw power across the weight classes.
| Matchup | Result | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Tim Tszyu vs Denis Nurja | Tszyu Win | Unanimous Decision |
| N. Asofa-Solomona vs J. Wallace | Asofa-Solomona Win | KO (Round 3) |
| Callum Peters vs D. Mouzinho | Peters Win | TKO (Round 2) |
| Paulo Aokuso vs K. Jian Hao Ho | Aokuso Win | TKO (Round 1) |
The boxing community now awaits confirmation on the Errol Spence Jr. Negotiations. With Tszyu’s victory maintaining his standing in the rankings, the focus turns to whether the fight will be brokered for a July or August date, and whether the venue will be shifted to the United States to accommodate Spence’s preferences.
Join the conversation in the comments below—do you think Tszyu can “catch the big fish” in a fight against Spence?
