The vacant WBO international middleweight title will be on the line on Jan. 16, as undefeated prospect Nikita Tszyu faces veteran contender Michael Zerafa at Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall, Australia.
With his perfect pro record, Tszyu heads into the title match as the betting favorite with -110 boxing odds, while Zerafa is going to be the betting underdog with +100 odds. A draw result has odds of +1400.
Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa Fight Odds
- Nikita Tszyu: -110
- Michael Zerafa: +100
- Tie: +1400
Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa: Tale of the Tape
| Nikita Tszyu | Michael Zerafa | |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 27 | 33 |
| Height | 5’10” | 5’11” |
| Record | 11-0 | 34-5 |
| Reach | 70 inches | 71.5 inches |
| Stance | Southpaw | Orthodox |
| TKO/KO Percentage | 82% | 65% |
Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa: Prediction
I predict a TKO/KO victory for Tszyu against Zerafa because he packs more power in his punches and is a more explosive fighter. Although both have an aggressive approach, Tszyu is expected to press forward.
Tszyu can use the blueprint that Erislandy Lara used when he fought Zerafa and knocked him out early in the fight. He should utilize a strong jab to set up an atomic left-hand punch to catch Zerafa off guard.
If Zerafa decides to be the aggressor, Tszyu can play the role of a counterpuncher as he’s a bit quicker. The undefeated prospect can use this speed to evade the best shots from Zerafa and rapidly swing back several of his own combinations.
Nikita Tszyu’s Recent Fight Results
Tszyu is an undefeated boxing prospect who comes from a family of world champions. He has won 11 pro matches with an 82% TKO/KO rate. In his last five fights, he defeated Jack Brubaker, Dylan Biggs, Danilo Creati, Koen Mazoudier, and Lulzim Ismaili.
Michael Zerafa’s Recent Fight Results
Zerafa is a seasoned Australian boxing contender who captured several regional titles. He recoded four wins and one loss in his past five bouts, with victories over Danilo Creati, Tommy Browne, Besir Ay, and Mikey Dahlman. His lone loss during this stretch was courtesy of Lara.
Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa: Start Time
Jan. 16, 4 a.m. E.T.
Jan. 16, 3 a.m. C.T.
Jan. 16, 2 a.m. M.T.
Jan. 16, 1 a.m. P.T.
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