Ex-world champion American Tony Harrison (29-3-1, 21 KOs) expressed a desire to replace the absolute in 69.9 kg of compatriot Jermell Charlo (35-1-1, 19 KOs) and meet on January 28 at Michelob Ultra Arena (Las Vegas, USA) with WBO mandatory challenger Australian Tim Tszyu (21-0, 15 KOs).
“I am ready to replace Charlo. So tell Tim that he doesn’t have to go six months without a fight.”
informed ex-champion through social networks.
Yesterday it became known that the fight Charlo vs Tszyu would have to be postponed indefinitely, as the champion broke his arm during sparring – he had already been put in a cast.
Tszyu reacted to the news: he is disappointed, but does not want to sit idle – he is ready to meet the next mandatory challenger.
Harrison has been in title fights three times. In 2017, he could take the IBF belt from compatriot Jarrett Hurd, but got tired in the second half of the fight under the incessant pressure of the big man and capitulated in the 9th round.
In 2018, Harrison controversially beat Charlo and took the WBC title from him. Tony also had a very good rematch, but traditionally could not stand the stress – he lost by knockout in the 11th round.
Interestingly, it is Harrison who is the top techie in the division vRINGe versions. In April, the ex-champion returned to the ranks with a cool performance, and in November, the WBC ordered the final eliminator with his participation.