Date confirmed for Jeff Horn-Tim Tszyu fight

Queensland’s former world champion boxer Jeff Horn will take on Tim Tszyu in Townsville in August, it was confirmed today.

The anticipated boxing bout between former world champion Jeff Horn and Tim Tszyu is definitely on, it was announced today.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk confirmed the fight would be held at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Wednesday, August 26.

Ms Palaszczuk said the square off between Horn and Tszyu was a great coup for Queensland’s tourism industry.

“This blockbuster event will be a big shot in the arm too for the Townsville economy,“ the Premier said.

“Jeff Horn is one of Queensland’s favourite sporting stars, I know the people of Townsville and North Queensland will jump at the chance to see him box in their own backyard.

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“We built the Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville to attract world class sporting and entertainment events and it’s the perfect showcase for the region.

“The Elton John concert at the venue was a sellout and I’m confident the Horn v Tszyu fight will be too.

“This is a testament to what new infrastructure can do for tourism and business.”

Tickets go on sale on Monday at 2pm, with an attendance of up to 16,000 fans approved in the COVID-Safe site specific plan, with seating available in both the stands and on the field.

Boxers Tim Tszyu and Jeff Horn will finally face each other at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in August. Picture: Evan Morgan

Former World champion Jeff Horn was thrilled when he heard the news.

“I can’t tell you how happy I am,” he said. “To finally have a new date and to know I’ll be fighting in Townsville in front of a home crowd is just great.

“I’m also proud that this fight will do it’s bit to help Queensland’s economy get moving again and especially North Queensland.”

Tim Tszyu is certainly ready to rumble in just over six weeks.

“I’m really excited for this fight. My Dad fought in front of packed Townsville Stadium. I hope to put on a great show for everyone.”

Jeff Horn fighting Manny Pacquiao at Suncorp Stadium in 2017. Picture: Peter Wallis

Ms Palaszczuk said: “COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on the tourism and events industry, but thanks to the efforts of Queenslanders to flatten the curve, we’ve been able to slowly ease restrictions and start reopening our economy.

“I’m thrilled to be able to confirm this fight will take place at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Wednesday, 26 August 2020 and that we’ll be able to welcome 16,000 fans into the stadium.

“That’s 16,000 people that will be spending money in the local economy and supporting local recovery efforts.

“It’s the perfect opportunity for interstate boxing fans to fly to Townsville for the fight and then stay on and take a break in the region.”

Tourism Minister Kate Jones said initial projections were that the event would drive 8550 visitors to Townsville, generating 24,100 room nights and direct and incremental spend of $5.6m.

“With the capacity available, we believe this event will still drive those numbers for Queensland,” she said.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart urged Aussies to book their tickets.

“The coronavirus delivered a hard, below the belt punch for tourism operators everywhere,“ he said.

“This fight couldn’t have come at a better time for local businesses.

“Now more than ever before, we all need something to smile about. Having Queensland’s boxing hero Jeff Horn take on Tim Tszyu in our brand-new stadium in Townsville is something to look forward to.

“Tickets will sell like hot cakes. We’re urging Queenslanders – don’t miss out on this fight, book now.”

Tim Tszyu in his bout with Jack Brubaker in Sydney in December, 2019. Picture: AAP Image/Brendon Thorne

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said events like the Horn fight would play a major role in the city’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our tourism and events industry has taken a major hit as we deal with COVID-19 and it’s encouraging to see it picking back up as restrictions in Queensland ease,” Cr Hill said.

“Events like the Horn versus Tszyu fight will play a major role in attracting people back into the region where they will spend money at our accommodation, restaurants and shops.”

Co-promoters Dean Lonergan and Matt Rose are both delighted the fight is back on.

“This is a fight all Australia wants to see and waiting a few more months has only added to the excitement and expectation,” Mr Lonergan said.

“It’s fantastic that this showdown will still be staged at Townsville’s wonderful new stadium and I applaud the Queensland Government and Tourism Events Queensland for their efforts to help reschedule the fight for August 26.”

Matt Rose also thanked the efforts of the Queensland Government for ensuring the blockbuster is going ahead.

Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.au from 2pm Monday, July 13.