Get ready for a boxing bloodbath! The highly anticipated Australian showdown between Nikita “The Butcher” Tszyu and Michael “Pretty Boy” Zerafa is set to electrify the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Saturday, January 16, 2026. This isn’t just a fight; it’s a clash of styles, generations, and simmering animosity. We’re bringing you an in-depth statistical breakdown, a close look at both fighters’ recent form, and our definitive prediction on who will emerge victorious in this can’t-miss boxing event.
Nikita Tszyu (11-0, 9 KOs), the younger brother of former world champion Tim Tszyu, has rapidly forged his own fearsome reputation in the boxing world. “The Butcher,” as he’s known, brings a relentless, aggressive style to the ring, backed by genuine power. Fighting from a southpaw stance, Tszyu overwhelms opponents with calculated pressure and a knack for landing knockout blows. Boasting an impressive 82% knockout percentage, he’s proven he carries dynamite in both hands.
Recent Form:
Michael “Pretty Boy” Zerafa (34-5, 22 KOs) is a seasoned veteran of the Australian boxing scene. With significantly more experience than Tszyu, Zerafa has shared the ring with a number of world-class opponents. Fighting from an orthodox stance, Zerafa relies on his boxing skills, ring generalship, and a solid jab to control the distance and dictate the pace. While he possesses a respectable 65% knockout percentage, Zerafa is perhaps best known for his resilience and ability to adapt mid-fight.
Recent Form:
| Statistic | Nikita Tszyu | Michael Zerafa |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 27 | 33 |
| Height | 5’ 10” / 177 cm | 5’ 11” / 180 cm |
| Reach | 70.1” / 178 cm | 71.7” / 182 cm |
| Record | 11-0 (9 KOs) | 34-5 (22 KOs) |
| KO Percentage | 82% | 65% |
| Rounds Fought | 48 | 223 |
| Stance | Southpaw | Orthodox |
The tale of the tape reveals a compelling contrast: raw power versus seasoned experience. Tszyu boasts a significant advantage in knockout percentage, hinting at fight-stopping power in his fists. Zerafa, on the other hand, brings a wealth of experience, having fought nearly five times as many professional rounds. This disparity in experience could be a critical factor in the later rounds, should the fight go the distance.
Both fighters share a recent, common opponent in Mikey Dahlman, each securing a TKO victory in the first round on the same card. Tszyu’s undefeated record underscores his dominance, but Zerafa’s recent knockout loss to Erislandy Lara highlights a vulnerability against elite-level punchers.
Nikita Tszyu has maintained a higher activity level recently. His last 5 fights occurred over 2 years, 4 months, and 24 days – averaging a fight every 5 months and 24 days. Zerafa’s last 5 fights spanned 3 years, 8 months, and 27 days, averaging a fight every 9 months. Tszyu’s greater activity could translate to increased sharpness and momentum in the ring.
This fight hinges on whether Tszyu’s power and aggression can overwhelm Zerafa’s experience and ring smarts. Zerafa will likely aim to utilize his jab and movement to keep Tszyu at bay, while Tszyu will relentlessly hunt, looking to close the distance and unleash fight-ending combinations.
While Zerafa’s experience is a definite asset, Tszyu’s power, relentless pressure, and southpaw stance present a formidable challenge. Expect Tszyu to apply constant pressure, eventually breaking Zerafa down and securing a late stoppage victory.
Prediction: Nikita Tszyu by TKO in Round 7-10.
Nikita Tszyu is the favorite at 77/100 (-130), meaning a $130 bet would be needed to win $100. Michael Zerafa is the underdog at 51/50 (+100), meaning a $100 bet would yield a $100 profit if he scores the upset.
The stage is set for a thrilling showdown between two of Australia’s most exciting fighters. Will Nikita Tszyu continue his meteoric rise through the ranks, or will Michael Zerafa leverage his experience to derail the “Butcher’s” hype train? One thing is certain: this is a fight that no boxing fan will want to miss!
When is the Tszyu vs. Zerafa fight?
Nikita Tszyu will fight Michael Zerafa on Saturday, January 16, 2026, at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
What weight class is Tszyu vs. Zerafa?
The fight will be contested at a catchweight of 157 lb (71.2 kg).
What time does Tszyu vs. Zerafa start?
The fighters are expected to ring walk at approximately 11:00 AM UTC at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane, Australia. This translates to 6:00 AM EST or 3:00 AM PST in the United States, and 11:00 AM GMT in the UK.
What are the betting odds for Tszyu vs. Zerafa?
Nikita Tszyu is the slight favorite with odds around 77/100 (-130). Michael Zerafa is the underdog with odds around 51/50 (+100).
Where can I watch Tszyu vs. Zerafa?
In the United States and the United Kingdom, the fight will be broadcast on PPV.com.
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