Toowoomba’s Steven Spark falls short in quest to upset champion Tim Tszyu

Toowoomba’s Steven Spark went down swinging in his bid to cause an upset over unbeaten champion Tim Tszyu.

Steven Spark throws a punch. Photo: Mark Evans/Getty Images

BOXING: The fairytale run of Steven Spark came to a halt at the hands of Tim Tszyu.

In their super welter bout at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, the unbeaten champion was at his brilliant best, coming away with a TKO victory in the third round.

Toowoomba’s Spark, who entered the fight with just one week notice, didn’t take a backwards step and took his chances to attack.

He landed a couple of rights on Tszyu as he looked for a killer blow.

However the class of Tszyu was on full display, controlling the fight and dropping Spark with a lethal body shot in the third that forced a stoppage from the referee.

Spark lost no admirers for his efforts both in the fight and in the lead-up, taking the bout on after Michael Zerafa pulled out at the last moment.

It marked Spark’s first fight at super welter, after forging a successful career at super light and winning his previous clash at welter.

After the fight, Spark vowed to return to his best at his premier division.

“Like I’ve said before, the hype is real,” Spark said.

“Tim is a quality opponent and I can’t thank him enough for the opportunity.

“He’s a future world champion and I’m glad I got the opportunity to share the ring with him.

“Australia, I promise I will win a world title, so get behind me. At my weight, I will win a world title.”