Boxing fans can expect to witness a “different” Nikita Tszyu when he steps into the ring at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre this month.
The rising super welterweight champion handed out a brutal lesson to Mason Smith at the same venue in May.
And, on Saturday 8 October, the son of Hall of Fame legend Kostya is keen to stop Novocastrian Darkon Dryden in his tracks… in just his third professional bout.
“Fifty per cent of my fights have been in Newcastle,” Tszyu said with a laugh.
“So, it’s virtually my second home.
“But, the reaction to my previous bout was fantastic.
“Yeah, I was happy with how it all went, too.
“It was a good display of what I potentially have – in terms of power, accuracy and what type of threat I can bring into the sport.
“I worked on my punching specifically for that fight.
“I noticed that my speed was kind of lacking in my pro debut.
“I landed a lot of left-handers in my maiden bout and, even though I cut his face, he took the shots.
“So, I was determined to fix that.
“I wanted to put more oomph into my punches.
“I’m trying to adapt as I evolve as a boxer.
“I am practicing new things all the time.”
His next opponent offers a new challenge but, one, Tszyu is primed to accept.
Dryden boasts a 4-0 winning record, thanks to four knockouts.
“I’ve watched a couple of Darkon’s fights,” he said.
“He’ll be tough, he’s a puncher.
“However, every fighter is a threat.
“I never take anyone lightly.
“In fact, I treat every bout I have as a last chance.
“So, it’s all a big educational process for me.
“It’s like that analogy – I’m still a toddler who’s learning to walk.
“I’m starting to run but I’m also falling over.
“There are many fundamental skills I’m working on – and I’ll move forward from here.”
Tszyu will headline a historic day on 8 October, with a packed house of more than 5,000 expected for a first-of-its-kind event organised by Australia’s leading promoters No Limit Boxing.
The extravaganza is scheduled to feature an incredible 20 bouts across 10 hours, with food trucks, beer gardens and “live” music creating a party atmosphere.
“It’s a bit wild,” Tszyu said.
“By the end of the evening, everyone will be rowdy.
“But, that’s alright, it’ll also bring the excitement to the Newcastle Entertainment Centre.
“I can’t wait.”
