Tim Tszyu is one of the current juggernauts of Australian boxing, a worldwide sensation representing his country on the world’s biggest stages. 

A household name, Tszyu’s rise through the ranks has been dominant, as he prepares for a comeback clash against Bakhram Murtazaliev.

But while Tszyu is a standout in the Aussie boxing scene, he is far from the only star, with names like Skye Nicolson and Jai Opetaia dominating in the sport across the globe. 

MORE: Tim Tszyu ready for redemption ahead of Murtazaliev fight

Tim Tszyu praises state of Australian boxing 

As one of the flag-bearers of Australian boxing, Tszyu is incredibly proud of the current state of Australian boxing. 

Speaking to media Wednesday, he said that the output of talent from such a far-away nation is a testament to the culture that has been established Down Under.

“We’re a small little island,” Tszyu said.

“We’re deserted from the rest of the world. Anywhere we go, it’s like 10-hour flight, minimum. Even to LA, it’s like 15 hours.

“But we got some talent out there. I think a lot of fighters are hungry. We got this stigma that Aussies are just tough, tough bastards that just fight.

“But we like to have a crack, and there’s a few of us that actually know what we’re doing. So it’s good to be on top of that with all the rest of the Australian combat athletes.

According to Tszyu, this passion exists both in the fighters and in the fan base, which is a reason he wants to return and fight in front of home fans again in the future.

“I think it is important to remain connected with the Aussie fans because they’re the ones that put me into this position. When I go and go into a fight, I feel like I’ve got a whole country behind me.

“It’s a good feeling to have that. Of course, I’d love to be back and fight in Australia just for the fans. I guess that’s the only reason. It means a lot.”

One Aussie fighter Tszyu has an even closer personal relationship with is his younger brother, Nikita Tszyu, who has begun to make a name for himself in the ring. 

Three years older, Tim has complete belief in his sibling to follow the Tszyu trail blazed by both himself and father Kostya, with Nikita already drawing significant Aussie eyeballs.

‘He’s doing pay-per-view in Australia,” Tszyu said.

“It’s so early in his career, and he’s already on a pay-per-view platform, so it’s hard to just completely disappear and come to America when you’re already a mega star in Australia.

“I think for the moment, I think he’s continuing on in Australia. But in the near future, for sure, you will see Nikita in America, and he brings a star that a lot of Americans would love.”

Tszyu is currently preparing to face Bakhram Murtazaliev, who he will fight on Sunday, October 20 Australian time, in Orlando, Florida.