Heavyweight Boxing
Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang will be stepping up to one of the toughest tests of his career when he faces Joe Joyce for the WBO Interim Heavyweight title on April 10th at the Copper Box Arena in London. Despite being the underdog in this matchup, Zhang has shown an unwavering determination to step up and take on one of the best heavyweights in the division.
Zhang proved he belonged in his last bout for the mandatory position in the IBF against Filip Hrgovic, losing what many considered a disputed decision.
Zhang's record stands at an impressive 22-1 (17 KOs) and the Chinese fighter has not shied away from the tough task at hand, stating in a recent interview, "This is a huge opportunity for me and I am going to take it. I'm excited and honoured to be fighting for the interim WBO heavyweight title. I know that Joe is a tough opponent, but I am ready to take on the challenge and show the world what I am capable of."
Zhang, who was a decorated amateur in China and competed in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, is a true representative of the burgeoning Chinese boxing scene. His upcoming fight against Joyce has generated a great deal of interest in China, where he is considered a rising star and a possible future world champion.
The pressure will undoubtedly be on Zhang to perform in what is a high-stakes matchup, but he has remained composed and focused on his training, saying, "I am putting everything into my preparation for this fight. I know that I need to be in the best shape of my life to take on someone like Joe Joyce, and I am doing everything I can to be ready."
It remains to be seen whether Zhang can overcome the odds and defeat Joyce, but his willingness to take on such a challenge speaks volumes about his character and his ambition. All eyes will be on him as he steps into the ring on April 10th, hoping to make a name for himself on the world stage of top heavyweight boxing.