Tim Tszyu Announces Major Changes, Forms ‘Australian Super Team’

Former WBO super-welterweight world champion Tim Tszyu has made significant changes to his camp after suffering his third loss in four fights, most recently in a stoppage defeat during his July rematch with Sebastian Fundora.

The 30-year-old Australian once looked destined to follow in the footsteps of his legendary father, Kostya Tszyu, rising to become the face of Australian boxing with his capture of the WBO title. However, his reign was short-lived. After just one title defense, Tszyu was stunned by Fundora’s split-decision upset in the U.S., a bout marred by a severe cut that nearly led to a no-contest had Tszyu protested more aggressively.

Trying to reclaim his crown, Tszyu was instead dismantled in three rounds by IBF champion Bakhram Murtazaliev. Returning to home soil, Tszyu earned a morale-boosting stoppage win over Joseph Spencer, which set up a rematch with Fundora and a shot at the WBC super-welterweight title. Yet again, Tszyu came up short, retiring after seven rounds of largely one-sided action.

In the wake of these setbacks, Tszyu announced on Instagram a revamped team, dubbing them the ‘Aussie Super Team.’ His new camp includes Australian matchmaker Mike Altamura, manager Darcy Ellis—the son of former IBF super-featherweight world champion Lester Ellis—and boxing legend Jeff Fenech, who will serve as an advisor and mentor.

“After my last loss, I felt like I needed a change with a different game plan,” Tszyu said. “So, part of the new team is Darcy, Mike, and Jeff in an advisory role. I’m coming in with a whole new mindset. Everyone’s going to come on board and witness history. Tune in and watch because you’re going to witness something.”

Altamura will take on the role of matchmaking strategist, Ellis as manager, and Fenech will provide mentorship when needed, according to Code Sports.

Tszyu also confirmed his split from longtime trainer Igor Goloubev, who has been with him since his amateur days. “There is no particular reason [for the change], and I’m very grateful for everything Igor and the team have done. But I feel like it’s time for a change. This is my next chapter. After previous losses, I should have changed things sooner, and now it’s my time.”

Looking ahead, Tszyu plans to travel to the United States to visit gyms and find a new trainer who can help him reclaim the super-welterweight world title.