On Sunday, in a rematch against WBC super-welterweight titleholder Sebastian Fundora, Tszyu will attempt to become a two-time world champion. Yet just six years ago, the famous Tszyu name alone wasn’t enough to sell fights. His bouts were bolstered by the presence of Gallen, who would fight the likes of fellow footballers John Hopoate and Justin Hodges to help drive subscription sales.
Meanwhile, IBF champion Opetaia, the best cruiserweight in the world, has virtually no profile in Australia. Considered one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world, and a chance of one day challenging for the heavyweight world title, Opetaia’s handlers were unable to come to terms with Stan or local promoters No Limit.
“I’ve helped a lot of boxers come through,” Gallen said after defeating Williams. “I look at Tim Tszyu and Jai Opetaia, what they’re doing, they started fighting on my undercard.
“That’s pretty crazy. I’m not trying to for a second take any credit for what they’ve done because they’ve done it all themselves.
Paul Gallen got the decision.Credit: Wolter Peeters
“Jai Opetaia used to travel down from the Central Coast before school, spar me and then go back to school.
“Like that’s how dedicated this bloke is to the sport, so to see him at the top of the tree now doing what he’s doing, and that’s just awesome. I’m so happy for him and so happy for Tim Tszyu, I hope Tim Tszyu goes out this weekend and wins.
“I’m really proud of what I’ve done for boxing and them couple of guys, but as far as I’m concerned, it’s all over for me.”
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Given the controversy that has followed Gallen’s sporting career, it’s appropriate it ended in contentious fashion. The “G-Train” won a split points decision against Williams, a result that divided the boxing scribes covering the event.
While they were waiting for the judges’ verdict, the former footballers shook hands, ending a decade of hate.
“I’m happy to sit down and have a coffee with him and end it, end the whole feud,” Gallen said.
If they were selling ringside tickets to their cappuccino chat, it would be packed to the rafters.
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