Zhilei Zhang was one of the big breakout stars of 2023 despite being something of a veteran and now he has made a fresh prediction for the fight between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou
Zhang had two standout wins last year when he became the first man to beat Joe Joyce. The first contest saw him break down Joyce and inflict such damage to his eye that the fight had to be stopped.
In the quickly turned around rematch he did it in even more impression fashion by stopping Joyce with a huge left hook in round three. Since then he has been very vocal about wanting to face Tyson Fury and he remains in a good position as mandatory.
Next up though he takes on resurgent Joseph Parker who also had a big win last year when he beat Deontay Wilder on points on the Day of Reckoning Card in December.
Their fight takes place on March 8 on the undercard of Joshua versus Ngannou, which Zhang has now spoken about to IFL TV and said Joshua has all the skills but Ngannou has the power.
“When you look at Ngannou he is a novice in boxing but he did really well against Tyson Fury, everyone can see that. In terms of skill and experience, Joshua has the upper hand however Ngannou has the power and the chin.”
He then said he is prepared for any outcome and warned Joshua to be on his game.
“We’re talking heavyweight boxing. So many things can happen in one second. One punch can change the whole fight, so you never know. Joshua has to pay attention to his defense and make sure it is sound going into that fight.”
Zhang against the winner of that fight would be an enticing match up indeed should he come through against Parker.