BOXING champ Tim Tszyu was rushed to hospital after a shock dog attack that plunges his world title fight into jeopardy.
The 28-year-old underwent emergency surgery after his right arm was reportedly savaged by an animal at a barbecue on Sunday.
It has thrown his fight against Mexican Carlos Ocampo in just three weeks into serious doubt.
Boxing fans fear the Gold Coast clash may not go ahead after the son of legendary boxer Kostya Tszyu was attacked.
However, his camp has insisted he will be fit enough to take on his opponent despite his wounds from the dog bite.
Tsyzu’s manager, Glen Jennings, said in a statement: “The wound was superficial. The post-surgical report is all good.
“There is no doubt that Tim will be ready and 100 per cent healthy and focused to take on Carlos Ocampo on June 18.”
No Limit Boxing CEO George Rose is also betting that the battle on June 18 will still go ahead.
He said in a statement: “Like everyone, I was shocked and worried when I first heard the news.
“It’s certainly not the ideal preparation anytime a fighter ends up in hospital a few weeks out from world title fight but the best news right now is that Tim is doing ok.
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“He has the best and most experienced team around him in world boxing.
“They have reassured me he’ll be more than ready on June 18 to take on Ocampo. If they’re confident, I’m confident.”
“There is no doubt that Tim will be ready and 100 per cent healthy and focused to take on Carlos Ocampo on June 18.”
It was set to be Tszyu’s last fight before his Las Vegas showdown with undisputed super welterweight king Jermell Charlo, who has delayed it twice due to an injured hand.
Taking on Ocampo marks Kostya’s first clash with a Mexican fighter and he is keen to recreate his famous father’s streak of success.
He said in a previous interview: “The Tszyu legacy, we’re 5-0 against the Mexicans.
“For me growing up and being a lover of this sport, watching the rivalries – Erik Morales, Barrera, the big Mexican fights like that – I’ve always wanted to test myself.
“So I’m quite honoured to be able to fight against a Mexican. It’s going to be a tough task so hopefully my hands are ready.”
Kostya, who has held the world title since March, described his opponent as the “perfect test” for him.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
