Middleweight contender Michael Zerafa is still keeping a close eye on his Australian rival, junior middleweight star Tim Tszyu.
According to Zerafa, he’s now aligned with Premier Boxing Champions and is guaranteed a crack at the winner of Erislandy Lara vs. Danny Garcia, who are slated to collide later this year for the WBA middleweight title.
Tszyu is back next month, when he makes the first defense of the WBO middleweight title against Brian Mendoza, who has the WBC’s interim-belt around his waist.
The Aussie fighter will be elevated to full champion status the moment Jermell Charlo steps in the ring with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena.
Zerafa believes a showdown with Tszyu will eventually happen.
“The rivalry between us is real and I am sure Tim feels the same,” said Zerafa to The Daily Mail.
“He comes from a great [boxing] bloodline, his father Kostya is one of Australia’s greatest. As it stands, we are both number one in our divisions….there is only one way to settle who is the best, and that is in the ring.
“We are both doing our thing at the moment, but when it [bout] does happen, it will be a massive event. I wouldn’t say he gets under my skin though.”
Zerafa told the outlet that he expects to return in November, against an Argentinian opponent in Las Vegas. Following that, would be the winner of Lara vs. Garcia.
“Contracts with Premier Boxing Champions have been signed, the path is now clear, which is great. I’m training three times a day, and I feel great physically, mentally and emotionally,” Zerafa said.
“The end goal is to be a world champion, and I’m ready to make a statement.”