Tim Tszyu

I miss watching Kostya. Looks like his kid is turning pro at a young age. Spitting image, might be something to follow in a few years:

http://northern-times.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/tszyu-says-son-will-go-pro/

BOXING legend Kostya Tszyu says his son will turn to professional boxing rather than pursue a career in the amateur ranks.
Tszyu has confirmed his son will return to defend his Golden Gloves crown at Caboolture this weekend.
And in a major boost for one of Australia’s biggest boxing tournaments, Kostya will be ringside as teenage sensation Tim looks to improve on his flawless 15-fight amateur record.
While the Golden Gloves will feature some of Australia’s best amateur boxers, Kostya said Tim would soon move in to the big world of professional boxing.
``Definitely he won’t fight amateur. It’s too difficult to reach that level ... some countries like Cuba and Russia are too dominant,’’ Kostya said.
``I’m going to mentor him and definitely manage him. He won’t make the same mistakes as me.’‘
Speaking with Quest Newspapers before he arrives in town on Friday, Tszyu Sr said he was looking forward to seeing his prodigy in the ring, having only been at a handful of his contests.
``I’m looking forward to it, more than him,’’ Tszyu joked.
``I’ve been training every morning and afternoon with him, so I give him some tips. He’s been doing it only a year and a half, and he’s improved a lot.
``He’s confident, powerful and his decision making is good. I’m very pleased.’‘
Kostya has previously been reluctant to talk about 15-year-old Tim’s boxing career, but brimmed with pride when speaking to Quest Newspapers.
Despite having only six months’ boxing experience under his belt before last year’s Golden Gloves, Tim oozed class and raw power to win the junior 63kg class.
But former world light welterweight champion Kostya said things would not be so easy this weekend.
``He’s now defending his title, so there’s more pressure,’’ he said.
``Kids are studying his fights, and watching what he does.’‘
The Golden Gloves are at the Caboolture Junior Rugby League Club from this Friday to Sunday, and feature close to 150 bouts.

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCPvdpZnNNg&feature=player_embedded[/ame]

 

Good post. Kostya's calm and ring smarts were a huge part of his success. Even after the knockout loss to Phillips he regrouped and came back better. A long amateur career is important for that mental fortitude. Of course, raw, ungodly talent doesn't hurt either.