"HE never wanted this fight."
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He's a man that usually watches on ring side, but No Limit Boxing's chief executive officer George Rose pulled no punches on Wednesday after Michael Zerafa officially withdrew from his highly anticipated bout with Tim Tszyu.
The Bathurst product who runs the top boxing promotional company with his brothers Matt and Trent, was far from pleased when Zerafa pulled out of the July 7 super welterweight fight due to concerns over COVID-19 restrictions.
"We knew from the moment he looked Tim in the eyes at the press conference and went quiet that he never wanted this fight," Rose said.
"I knew it. Tim knew it. Australia knew it.
"He never wanted this fight and all I can say is I'm sorry for everyone who has wanted this fight for so long.
"We have everything in place to have a COVID safe event."
The undefeated Tszyu, who the Rose brothers promote, will now take on Steve Spark, a 24-year-old with a 12-1 record.
Rose still expects a tough fight as Tszyu pursues a 19th consecutive win.
"We said rain hail or shine, Tim Tszyu was fighting in Newcastle on July 7 and that's exactly what's going to happen," Rose said.
"Full credit to Steve Spark for taking this fight at short notice.
"We know he is going to make for an incredibly difficult fight for Tim."
Tszyu also praised Spark for taking on the fight at short notice, and said he's anticipating a good contest.
"He's a dangerous fighter with a lot of power," he said.
"I've seen it for myself. I was ringside at the fight in Wollongong when he hammered Jack Brubaker, and saw how well he did under the bright lights."
"He has power, stamina and keeps the pressure on. I know he's coming to hit and hit hard.
"I'm expecting that and much more next Wednesday night. It's going to be a great fight."
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