Undefeated Australian boxer Tim Tszyu has spoken about the impact of his new partnership with legendary trainer Jeff Fenech, crediting the change in team structure and Fenech's mentorship for a resurgence in his career. The collaboration has been pivotal, particularly following two recent super-welterweight losses that had begun to affect Tszyu's confidence.
Fenech, a three-time world champion himself, joined Tszyu's corner for his recent victory over Errol Spence Jr. This win is being viewed as a significant turning point for the 31-year-old boxer. Tszyu stated that working with Fenech has led to a less isolating training environment, contributing to a more relaxed and positive mindset. "Since I've gone to Jeff, I haven't been isolating myself anymore," Tszyu told the Daily Mail. "Bringing in a new team sort of gave me a break from training feeling like a military camp. I've felt more relaxed and happy."
Fenech emphasized that his initial focus was on Tszyu's mental well-being, addressing what he described as "trauma" and personal pressures. "The first thing I had to do was fix his head because he had so much trauma. It was all personal at the start, and me showing I had his back," Fenech said. He also took steps to shield Tszyu from online criticism, at one point advising him to get off social media and use a different phone number, noting the impact on Tszyu's wife. "My first and foremost priority was to make sure Tim was happy. If there's any pressure on him, I'll let the air out of the tyre."
To further support Tszyu, Fenech consulted with other high-profile Australian coaches, including Wayne Bennett and Graham Arnold. Fenech expressed his belief that Tszyu has the potential to become a two-time world champion, a feat achieved by only two other Australian males.
Beyond his own boxing career, Tszyu is also involved in promoting a proposed charity boxing match. He has partnered with right-wing commentator Beau Whitford, who aims to settle philosophical differences with former NRL player Luke Bateman in the ring. Whitford and Bateman have reportedly clashed over topics such as free speech and "wokeism."
Whitford stated that the idea for the fight began as a joke but that he has been training and believes he is in good shape for a potential bout, tentatively slated for October. "I've been training. I stay in pretty good shape. We are similar weight range. I reckon it will be a great match," Whitford said. Tszyu has publicly supported Whitford, stating, "I'm with Team Brett. I think (the idea of the fight) is great. For someone to say, 'Let's do it', that takes a lot of courage and respect. I really respect it."