The venue is now officially set. Tim Tszyu will defend his WBO super welterweight world title on Sunday, October 15, at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Australia.
Tszyu (23-0, 17KO) will collide with Brian Mendoza following the World Boxing Organization’s (WBO) decision to elevate him to full champion status as soon as Jermell Charlo is announced in the ring for his highly anticipated fight with Canelo Alvarez on September 30.
It is the third fight for the 28-year-old inside seven months having blasted out Carlos Ocampo on the Gold Coast in June, and disposing of former WBC world champion Tony Harrison with a ninth-round stoppage in Sydney in March.
The co-main event is also set, with Australia’s Sam Goodman (16-0, 7 KO) facing former world title challenger Miguel Flores (25-4-1).
Tszyu-Mendoza will be broadcast live on Foxtel’s Main Event and Kayo Sports in Australia and on Showtime in the USA.
No Limit Boxing CEO George Rose said: “This fight is a massive coup for the Gold Coast and Australia,” Rose said.
“The energy of a world title fight week in one of the best locations in the country is something not to be missed. His knockout of Carlos Ocampo a few months ago was absolutely stunning and left areal mark on boxing fans around the globe.”
“It’s looking like this will be Tim’s final fight on our shores for the foreseeable future and Brian Mendoza is an incredibly dangerous man.”
“He’s ranked number two in the division, so it doesn’t get any bigger than this. It’s going to be a cracker and expect fireworks from the opening bell.”
Queensland Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Gold Coast is the perfect location for the world title fight.
“It's terrific that Tim has again chosen the outstanding Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre to defend his world title, with fans no doubt chomping at the bit to see more of him in action, following his last fight first round win.
“The bout, backed by Tourism and Events Queensland, will also pack a punch for our visitor economy, with sporting fans travelling from around the country, while images highlighting the magnificent Gold Coast, will be beamed to a global audience.
“Local hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues will welcome the boost in visitors, who we expect to stay around 7,500 visitor nights, spending almost $4 million and supporting good local tourism jobs."
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said: “It’s on! The biggest world title bout in Australia this year – right here on the Gold Coast,’’ said Mayor Tom Tate.
“Gold Coasters have adopted Tim as their own so to have him choose our city for this blockbuster is incredible news.
“This will be a monumental fight night bringing together two champions from the WBO and WBC Super Welterweight divisions. I’m backing Tim to stand proud on October 15 and deliver the goods for Australia.’’