Australian boxing star Tim Tsyzu has locked in his next fight as he amps up preparations for next year’s long-awaited world title shot.

Tszyu (19-0, 14KO) will place his undefeated record on the line against Japanese warrior Takeshi Inoue (17-1-1) on November 17.

The bout will be held in Australia, most likely NSW, with promoters No Limit Boxing to make a final announcement next week.

The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) last month mandated Tszyu, as his division’s No.1-ranked challenger, to fight for Brian Castano’s super welterweight world title.

Castano has been holding out but there’s no escaping the 26-year-old Sydneysider now following the WBO’s intervention.

Tszyu could have taken a much easier route ahead of the highly-anticipated showdown next year but will instead risk his unbeaten record against 31-year-old Inoue, who is renowned for his punching prowess and work rate.

Inoue is ranked No.7 in the world by the WBO, with his lone defeat coming by decision in a world title fight with then-champion Jamie Munguia in 2019.

The 31-year-old enters his clash with Tszyu on a four-fight winning streak and aware victory could deliver his own world title bout in 2022.

Tszyu has been unstoppable in the past 12 months, beating former world champion Jeff Horn, Kiwi Bowyn Morgan, Irishman Dennis Hogan and, most recently, compatriot Stevie Spark, all inside the distance. 

“It’s time to take on the best in the division so a former world title challenger who is ranked seventh in the world might be considered a dangerous fight but for me it’s the perfect challenge,” Tszyu said.

“I got into the mandatory position by being active and beating everyone they put in front of me so I’m not going to stop now.

“I know Takeshi Inoue is world-class but I plan on proving that I’m the best there is.”

AAP

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