Vergil Ortiz Jr. Returns with First-Round KO, Targets Tim Tszyu Showdown
In a thunderous return to the ring, Vergil Ortiz Jr. left no room for doubt, scoring a first-round knockout against Frederick Lawson in Las Vegas. The 25-year-old welterweight contender, now 20-0 with 20 knockouts, marked his debut in the junior middleweight division with an impressive display of power. Ortiz utilized a stiff jab to control the fight, visibly stunning Lawson and prompting the referee, Tony Weeks, to intervene at the 2:33 mark. Despite Ortiz's desire for more rounds, the stoppage showcased his dominance in the ring. Post-fight, Ortiz wasted no time in calling out Australian WBO junior middleweight champion Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs). In the ring, Ortiz expressed respect for Tszyu, acknowledging him as a formidable opponent and proposing a matchup that fans would eagerly anticipate. Oscar De La Hoya, Ortiz's promoter, joined the chorus, indicating their willingness to travel to Australia for a showdown with Tszyu. The Australian champion promptly responded, welcoming Ortiz to the "’54 club" and expressing enthusiasm for a modern-day classic. In the lead-up to the Lawson fight, Ortiz had already declared his readiness to face top names in his weight class, including Terence 'Bud' Crawford, Errol 'The Truth' Spence Jr, Jaron 'Boots' Ennis, Jermell Charlo, and Tszyu. Unfazed by potential skeptics questioning his form after a 17-month layoff, Ortiz emphasized his eagerness to prove himself against the best. The welterweight contender's call-outs and willingness to face formidable opponents underline his determination to climb the ranks and validate his status as a rising force in boxing. #VergilOrtizJr #TimTszyu #Boxing #KOVictory #FightNight
