One of the most anticipated matches of next year has been postponed.
Undisputed 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo broke his left arm while training to defend him against Tim Tszyu on January 28 in Las Vegas, which forced organizers to postpone the match.
No new date has been determined.
Charlo said: “I was fencing, and I threw this nice punch and as soon as it hit the ground I knew something was wrong. “I felt a sharp pain in my hand immediately. I had X-rays and MRIs done twice to see if there were any problems. It showed it was broken in two places.
“I hate this feeling. My arm will be in a cast for two months. I’m disappointed as well as the fans, maybe more, because this is my first chance to defend the undisputed title. “
He continued: “My way, I could have beaten Tim Tszyu with one hand, but the doctors and the boxing committee wouldn’t allow it. It is even more dangerous when a lion encounters adversity and has to turn back to protect its pride.
“I’ve been training since July and I’ve been training harder than ever, and this is what happens when you push yourself to the limit. After my hand heals, I will come back stronger than ever to protect my legacy.”
Tszyu, who will be fighting for a major title for the first time as the match progresses, was heartbroken by the news.
“I am very disappointed,” said Tszyu. “I feel like the stars align for the undisputed… but we kept going. I’m ready for the next required challenge. I’ll come back to Charlo when he’s ready and recovered.”
Charlo (35-1-1, 19 KOs) unified all four titles when he blocked Brian Castano in 10 rounds in their rematch in May.
Tszyu (21-0, 15 KOs) is on the verge of his biggest win yet, a unanimous decision against Terrell Gausha in March. He is the son of Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu.
