Tim Tszyu blasts 'diva' Errol Spence after virtual face-off no-show

Tim Tszyu labeled Errol Spence a diva after the American failed to appear for a scheduled virtual face-off on Australian television Thursday, the latest chapter in a pre-fight dynamic marked by Spence's refusal to engage. The Ring reported that Tszyu and promoter George Rose waited in the Kayo Sports studio while Spence never dialed in for his confirmed media obligation ahead of their July 25 clash in Sydney.

Host Ben Damon told viewers that multiple calls went unanswered. Tszyu, who had rescheduled sparring to accommodate the segment, did not hide his annoyance. "We've been waiting, what, 45 minutes now? I missed out on sparring today. Well, I had to change it up for this to be done, so I am quite upset," the former WBO junior middleweight champion said on air. Off camera, he added: "Just a diva act; that's all alright. On July 25, the hands will do the talking."

Spence repeats snub pattern ahead of Sydney showdown

The no-show follows Spence's refusal to shake hands with Tszyu at their May kickoff presser. "Ain't no hand dapping now, bro — kill that s***, you know how it is," Spence said as he walked past the Australian, per The Ring. The gamesmanship marks a departure for the 36-year-old Texan, who historically kept pre-fight interactions cordial. Spence has not fought since his July 2023 stoppage loss to Terence Crawford, his first career defeat.

Spence told reporters at a recent Houston media workout that his body feels ready and this matchup against Tszyu was the right moment to return. "My motivation to come back is about myself and my personal goals. Everything about training just excites me," he said. Spence enters at 28-1 with 22 knockouts, while Tszyu stands at 27-3 with 18 stoppages.

The bout takes place July 25 at a Sydney venue yet to be officially announced. Tszyu has pledged to stop Spence faster than Crawford did.

Source: ringmagazine.com