Tim Tszyu is set to defend his title against the fiery top-contender, Brian Mendoza. The fight is lighting up the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Broadbeach, Queensland, Australia. This Premier Boxing Champions event is all set to make some noise on SHOWTIME® on Saturday, October 14 (or Sunday, October 15 if you’re down under).
SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL® is starting the action at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.
Another treat awaits as Australia’s rising star, Sam Goodman, is set to trade punches with ex-world title challenger Miguel Flores in an exciting 12-round featherweight fight.
No Limit Boxing and The Rose Brothers, together with TGB Promotions, are the masterminds promoting this night of thrilling fights.
Tom Brown, the main man at TGB Promotions, voiced his excitement, saying, “Tim Tszyu is all about challenging the best. This time he’s squaring up against the surging Brian Mendoza. Both these fighters pack a punch, and the 154-pound division won’t know what hit them come October 14!”
Aged 28 and undefeated, Tszyu (23-0, 17 KOs) is not just riding the wave, he IS the wave in 2023. Earlier this year, he delivered a show-stopping performance against Tony Harrison, earning him the interim title. Not one to rest on his praise, Tszyu knocked out Carlos Ocampo in June. After a shakeup at the top, Tszyu was promoted to full WBO champion. The Sydney-born boxer made a respectable debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha last year and hasn’t looked back since. Here’s a fun tidbit: before boxing, Tim kicked about on the soccer field. Lucky for us, he switched lanes, following the legendary path of his dad, Kostya Tszyu.
Tszyu candidly expressed, “Becoming the world champion wasn’t about the party. The real celebration will be post-Mendoza fight. I respect Brian; he’s unique, but I’m from another league. My aim? Convert the skeptics. This division is mine.”
Brian Mendoza (22-2, 16 KOs), from Albuquerque, has Las Vegas lights shining on him. In April, he delivered a jaw-dropping knockout against the unbeaten Sebastian Fundora, making a significant mark in the 154-pound division. Under the guidance of the renowned trainer Ismael Salas, Mendoza’s on a roll. Having begun his career with 18 consecutive wins, he’s looking sharper than ever.
Mendoza shared, “This isn’t just about the title fight; it’s about taking that title home. I’ve pushed my limits during training and I’m set for a groundbreaking performance. Victory here is not just for me, it’s for generations of my family.”
Speaking of talents, let’s talk about the 25-year-old Goodman (15-0, 7 KOs). He emerged as a top-contender in June, after a significant decision over elite 122-pounder Ra’eese Aleem. Goodman’s track record is impressive, having dominated ex-world champion T.J. Doheny earlier this year. Starting as a pro in 2018, he’s been an unstoppable force since.
Flores (25-4-1, 12 KOs), on the other hand, is all geared up. After a draw with ex-three-division champion Abner Mares last year, he’s more ready than ever. With a career kicking off at just 17, Flores is no newbie to the boxing scene.
TIM TSZYU:
Feeling at home on the Gold Coast has always been a unique experience for me. I haven’t explored extensively here, but the warmth I’ve felt is undeniable. This affinity I feel for the Gold Coast is why I keep coming back, and I appreciate the support from everyone here.
I’m entirely focused now. There’s a distinct lack of affection between Mendoza and me, a sentiment I share with every opponent. They all seem to irritate me in one way or another. But in the end, my only goal is to achieve victory.
To me, this fight symbolizes a defense of all I’ve achieved. Mendoza is trying to claim what I consider my territory, and I won’t let that happen.
Although I respect him as an individual and don’t condone negative behaviors like booing, he should be prepared for an intense atmosphere on the fight night, thanks to my loyal supporters.
It’s not about who has the harder punch. I’ve noted his remarkable knockouts, but I plan to deliver one to him too.
I boast a record of 23-0 for a reason. My strategy remains an enigma. Mendoza is indeed making a name for himself, but my record speaks volumes.
My ambition extends beyond a single world title; I aim for all four. This isn’t about any particular competitor. I live in the moment, focusing on the fight ahead.
And a piece of advice? Stay alert.
BRIAN MENDOZA:
The reception I’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive. While I understand the crowd might be more inclined towards Tszyu, I hope to win over some new fans post-fight.
Overcoming Sebastian Fundora was surreal, a feeling beyond words. Proving myself in the underdog position was a dream realized, and it’s a rush I aim to experience repeatedly.
In all my fight anticipations, one vision remains consistent: emerging victorious at the end.
My journey echoes a real-life underdog story. While it wasn’t intentional, my career has witnessed highs and lows. Now, I’m on the path towards greatness, and winning this belt could change everything for me and my loved ones.
Regardless of Tszyu’s feelings towards me, the ultimate showdown awaits in the ring. My focus is clear: achieve victory, regardless of popular sentiment.
SAM GOODMAN:
Training is a constant for me, and while I’m training, it makes sense to fight. Staying active and consistent is my mantra. And given the stature of this event, there’s no such thing as an easy fight. So, taking on someone like Miguel Flores seems apt.
While he’s competed with some great fighters, he hasn’t encountered me yet. And I’m confident about the outcome.
This event garners a lot of attention, and I’m eager to make a statement to the division and all the title holders. I’m resolute in my quest to acquire those belts.
Being featured on SHOWTIME is a fantastic opportunity. I’m geared up and excited to deliver a memorable performance and defeat my opponent.
Event Details – Tszyu Mendoza Start Time
- Date: October 14, 2023 (October 15 in Australia)
- Start Time:
- Australia: 12:30 p.m. AEST
- U.S.: 10:30 p.m. ET
- UK: 3:30 a.m.
The precise time for the main event ringwalks remains to be confirmed.
Broadcast Information
- United States: The fight will be televised on Showtime.
- United Kingdom: The official broadcaster is yet to be announced.
Venue: The much-awaited fight between Tszyu and Mendoza will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, situated in Broadbeach, Queensland, Australia.
Full Fight Card:
- WBO Light Middleweight Title: Tim Tszyu vs. Brian Mendoza
- Featherweight Division: Sam Goodman vs. Miguel Flores
- IBF Australasian Super-featherweight Title (Vacant): Nathaniel May vs. Jackson Jon England
- Light Middleweight Division: Sergei Vorobev vs. Wade Ryan
- Super Bantamweight Division: Shanell Dargan vs. Amber Amelia
- Welterweight Division: Hassan Hamdan vs. Danvers Cuschieri
- Heavyweight Division: Toese Vousiutu vs. Julius Long