"Thought he had an easy one" - Terence Crawford shares critical review of Tim Tszyu’s shock TKO loss to Bakhram Murtazaliev

Terence Crawford has offered his thoughts on Tim Tszyu's recent loss to Bakhram Murtazaliev in the IBF super welterweight world title fight on Oct. 19. The Australian was eager to bounce back from his first career defeat, suffered in his previous clash against Sebastian Fundora in March 2024.

Murtazaliev asserted himself from the opening stanza of the fight, dropping Tszyu three times in Round 2. He dropped the former champion again with a sharp left hook in Round 3 before a barrage of punches against the ropes saw the 29-year-old's corner throw in the towel.

Many expected 'The Soul Taker' to secure victory, and fans, as well as Tszyu himself, were left stunned by the domination displayed by the IBF champion.

Newly-crowned WBA and interim WBO super welterweight champion, Crawford, took to X following the recent 154-pound title fight in Florida, United States, and wrote:

"Tim thought he had an easy one. Took this dude lightly and was worried about other fighters."

See Terence Crawford's comment on Tim Tszyu's loss below:

Whilst Tszyu will need time to collect himself following a second consecutive loss, Murtazaliev has been firmly thrust into boxing's limelight after sending shockwaves through the sport.

---

Tim Tszyu left nearly speechless following TKO loss to Bakhram Murtazaliev

Tim Tszyu returned to action on Oct. 19 against Bakhram Murtazaliev, with the Australian's father and legendary boxer, Kostya Tszyu, sitting ringside for the first time since the 29-year-old's debut in 2016.

But the night did not go as planned for the team from 'Down Under', as the IBF champion retained his title after a brutal beatdown of his opponent.

Murtazaliev extended his record to 23-0, securing the seventeenth knockout win of his professional career.

After suffering his second career defeat, 'The Soul Taker' appeared in front of the media alongside several of his team members. The heartbroken pugilist was asked to share his immediate thoughts on the result. He said:

"What the f**k just happened? Like, what did I get hit with? And I couldn't regroup, I don't know man. S**t doesn't go your way and you just have to bounce back. I was positive after Fundora [loss], but I've got to find more answers with this one. This didn't go according to script, it was a little bit different. I felt unbelievable, I had a great prep. He got me, man."

Catch Tim Tszyu's comments below (1:22):