Paulie Malignaggi Says Tim Tszyu Must Attack Errol Spence Early

The former world champion says Tszyu must test Spence from the opening bell rather than allowing the former unified champion to settle into his comeback.

Paulie Malignaggi believes Tim Tszyu cannot afford to ease into Saturday’s fight with Errol Spence Jr. The former world champion says Tszyu should force the pace from the opening bell and immediately test how Spence responds after three years away from the ring.

“I would expect an aggressive Tim Tszyu. I don’t see how you can not start out this fight aggressively against Errol Spence when you consider what’s in front of you, and the question marks about Errol,” Malignaggi said to the Punch Podcast. “If there’s anything you’re going to have with Jeff Fenech, it’s an aggressive psychology.”

Malignaggi doesn’t believe Jeff Fenech was brought in to overhaul Tszyu technically. He said Pedro Diaz already handled that side of the game. Fenech’s biggest contribution is changing Tszyu’s mindset.

Paulie wants to see Tszyu press the action with more conviction. He believes constant pressure will force Spence to answer questions that nobody can answer before the opening bell.

Tszyu has been hurt early in several fights. An aggressive start carries obvious risks. Malignaggi still believes that approach gives Tszyu his best chance to win. Allowing Spence to settle into the fight would play to the former champion’s advantage.

Malignaggi also wants Tszyu throwing power right hands over Spence’s jab. He believes those punches will reveal how much durability Spence has after three inactive years.

“You want to remind him early. He’s been away for three years,” Malignaggi said. “If you’re Tim, you want to test Errol’s chin a little bit and see where he’s at.”

Malignaggi declined to pick a winner because he sees too many unanswered questions surrounding both fighters. He believes Tszyu’s path to victory begins with immediate pressure. Allowing Spence to build confidence during the opening rounds would play into the former champion’s hands.

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