This Saturday night, August 20, 2025, all eyes turn to ICC Sydney Theatre, where boxing fans will witness a clash with major stakes.
Nikita “The Butcher” Tszyu, undefeated at 10-0 with 8 KOs, defends his record against Lulzim “The Eagle” Ismaili, 12-1 with 7 KOs, in a super welterweight bout for the WBO Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title. While Tszyu is the favorite, boxing fans watching boxing this weekend should know that Ismaili brings the tools and temperament to shock the world.
Here are 9 reasons why “The Eagle” could spoil Tszyu’s perfect record in boxing fights this weekend:
1. European Toughness and International Acclimatization
Ismaili has fought across Europe, facing diverse styles and high-caliber opponents. Tszyu’s only foreign opponent outside was Italian Danilo Creati, went the distance — he didn’t secure a knockout.
(Creati was born in Italy but fights out of Australia…go fig).
Fighting a true European contender like Ismaili is a step up, and this international savvy could make all the difference.
2. Proven Knockout Power
Seven knockouts in twelve wins don’t lie. “The Eagle” doesn’t just punch — he explodes. And if Tszyu’s left hand is still playing up after surgery, Ismaili could put him to sleep before he even realizes the round’s started. This isn’t the kind of timid jab work you see in practice gyms; it’s teeth-shaking, head-snapping, fight-ending power.
3. Defensive Genius and Ring IQ
Ismaili’s slick, slippery style — backfooted, with sharp head movement — allows him to evade pressure and pick apart aggressors. Against Tszyu’s forward-charging style, this could create openings for big, fight-changing counters.
4. Bounce-Back Mentality
After his first loss in October 2024 to Sumbu Nsasi, Ismaili has trained with renewed intensity [21, 30-33]. Fighters often return sharper, hungrier, and more focused after tasting defeat — expect him to bring fire in boxing fights this weekend.
5. Experience Over Longer Fights
Ismaili can finish early, sure. But he can also go ten rounds and still win comfortably. If Tszyu doesn’t land a knockout in the first five, the “Butcher” could find himself gassed, frustrated, and staring down a guy who’s just warmed up. Endurance isn’t sexy, but in this fight, it could be deadly
6. Tszyu’s Injury Concerns
Tszyu’s near-year-long layoff and ongoing left-hand issues, could hinder his power, defense, and endurance. This vulnerability is a prime target for a calculated and powerful opponent like Ismaili.
7. Intriguing Stylistic Matchup
Orthodox vs. Southpaw always adds intrigue. Ismaili’s defensive movement and angles may frustrate Tszyu, disrupt his rhythm, and create opportunities for clean shots — exactly the kind of openings needed for an upset.
8. The Eagle’s Ambition
Nicknamed “The Eagle” for a reason, Ismaili fights with a fierce desire to prove himself on the world stage. Every round is about reclaiming dominance and making a statement — a psychological edge that can’t be underestimated boxing this weekend.
9. Tszyu’s Pre-Fight Quirks
From consuming breast milk to placenta, Tszyu’s unconventional regimen has attracted media attention and criticism. This eccentricity could serve as a distraction, giving a focused, determined Ismaili an edge under the bright lights of Sydney.
Also, it’s just fucking weird. Go on all you like about the natural nutrition but this isn’t the type of gravy that accelerated Mike Tyson to the top of boxing.
This Saturday night showdown isn’t just another entry in Tszyu’s record. With Ismaili’s knockout power, international experience, and mental resilience, boxing fans watching boxing this weekend could witness a shock that redefines the super welterweight landscape. The undefeated “Butcher” faces his stiffest challenge yet — and “The Eagle” is ready to soar.
doragon sports 