Toowoomba’s Steven Spark preparing for the fight of his life against Tim Tszyu in Newcastle

Toowoomba’s Steven Spark has answered the call to take on the biggest name in Australian boxing, Tim Tszyu.

Steven Spark lands a punch on Jack Brubaker. Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

BOXING: Steven Spark will fight anyone, anywhere, anytime, and he’s proving that’s not just a cliche.

With a weeks notice, the Toowoomba boxer is now preparing to take on the biggest name in Australian boxing, Tim Tszyu.

After Michael Zerafa sensationally pulled out of the bout set down for Newcastle on July 7, Spark stood up at short notice for the bout for the WBO Global Super Welter Title.

Getting the call while at work on Wednesday from trainer Brendon Smith, Spark said he wants to give the fight public a bout they can be proud of.

“Brendon and I always talked about this fight. We had an inkling that our paths would cross, but it’s come quicker than expected,” Spark said.

“I got the call at work and Brendon asked me. Life’s about taking a risk. I’m a warrior and this is what I do.

“When Zerafa pulled out, it was my duty to give boxing fans something they want to see.”

Spark will step up to super welter for the bout with Tszyu, another rise in division following on from his unanimous decision victory over Jack Brubaker in April.

He said the opportunity to match it with Australia’s biggest name was enough motivation to take on the new challenge.

“I’m stepping up two weight divisions to take on the best the country has to offer,” he said.

“I’m humble in victory and defeat, and I know the risks. That excites me.

“I’m a dangerous man. I’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain, whereas Tim has everything to lose.

“Hopefully I can come back to Toowoomba as champion and number one in Australia.

“My last three fights have all been steps up. I’ve never turned down a fight in my career, and I want to set an example to the boxing world.

“It’s about taking risks and chances in life. I want to go after my dreams and aspirations. You get one life, and if you have a crack and fall, you just dust yourself off and go again.”

Spark’s impressive showing over Brubaker made the Australian boxing public take notice, and the Toowoomba fighter believes that was a big reason for why he got the call up.

“That was a big reason why I got picked - the way I conducted myself before and after the fight,” he said.

“Everyone loves an underdog in Australia. They’re calling me Cinderella Man, that’s it.

“I’m going to go out and give it my all, that’s all I can do. I’m a proud Toowoomba boy and if everyone can get behind me, that would be amazing.

“We’re hoping to get down to Newcastle as fast as we can and put the promoter’s mind at ease. We’re happy to quarantine if needed, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“I didn’t want to look back in 20 years and regret not taking the fight. I’ve got a baby boy on the way in September and I want to set a good example for him.”