During the live telecast, ex-global titleholders Paulie Malignaggi and Shawn Porter, observing from their commentary positions, frankly voiced their opinions, collectively accusing Zerafa of giving up. This accusation persisted, extending from the match itself into the subsequent media briefing.
When directly questioned about his conviction regarding Zerafa’s surrender, Tszyu offered an immediate response.
“Absolutely, I do,” he affirmed. “My belief is that he misjudged my capabilities, and the moment the laceration appeared, some past trauma surfaced. His feelings overwhelmed him. As soon as a touch of discomfort arises, he instantly seeks a way out.”
Tszyu further commented that the injury seemed insufficiently serious to warrant halting the contest.
“Frustrating is an understatement,” he stated. “I didn’t consider the gash particularly severe. It’s truly regrettable that he seized the earliest opportunity to withdraw.”
Within the Tszyu team, an analogy was inevitable, given Tim Tszyu’s notable perseverance through a deep cranial wound versus Sebastian Fundora in 2024, a choice which subsequently carried significant consequences. This historical context intensified the feelings regarding the conclusion of Friday evening’s event.
Zerafa’s explanation did little to de-escalate the tension. Although he maintained ringside his desire to proceed, he subsequently admitted informing the medical professional about his impaired sight. During a post-bout discussion with Main Event, his annoyance became palpable.
“I share the confusion and outrage of everyone else,” Zerafa declared. “I’m absolutely fed up. I’m unsure if I’ll ever return to the boxing arena. I’m completely finished.”
The contradictory statements emerged as the primary point of contention. Audio recordings from the broadcast captured Zerafa informing authorities of his inability to see, whereas his subsequent remarks indicated a feeling that the fight’s discontinuation was beyond his control.
For Tszyu, the result was deeply disappointing. He characterized his state as “stunned” after half a year of intense training concluded in under two rounds of actual combat. His manager, Glenn Jennings, later commented on the subdued mood within the venue and the perception that yet another opportunity to resolve the Tszyu-Zerafa contention had eluded a definitive conclusion.
The promoter, George Rose, refrained from agreeing to a subsequent bout, stating that it was premature to decide, though he recognized the dismay experienced by supporters who had filled the stadium and viewed the event via paid broadcast.
Zerafa’s future participation in boxing is still unknown. Athletes have previously retired only to make a comeback. However, in a discipline where conviction is as vital as victories, this particular evening’s events are likely to persist in memory. The contest resolved nothing, and the unresolved inquiries it generated might be more challenging to overcome than any physical injury.
