During a recent appearance on The MMA Hour, Zhilei Zhang made some bold statements regarding Anthony Joshua. Zhang, who holds a professional record of 27-2-1 with 22 knockouts, expressed his belief that Joshua is actively avoiding a potential bout between the two heavyweights. Zhang referenced their previous amateur encounter at the 2012 London Olympics, where Joshua emerged victorious via a points decision after knocking Zhang down during the fight. Since then, Zhang has been eager for a rematch, claiming that Joshua is unwilling to step into the ring with him.
Asserting that Joshua will “never fight me,” Zhilei Zhang cited insider information he received from his managers. According to Zhang, he was informed that Joshua has no intention of facing him in a professional match. Zhang criticized Joshua’s choice of opponents, including Francis Ngannou and Robert Helenius, suggesting that Joshua lacks the necessary skills to face him in the ring. He also called out Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, accusing him of prioritizing financial gains over competitive challenges.
While Joshua is currently preparing to face Daniel Dubois for the IBF belt, Zhang’s future opponents remain uncertain. Fans have expressed interest in a potential rematch between Joshua and Zhang, eagerly anticipating a showdown between the two heavyweights. Zhang, who recently secured a knockout victory over Deontay Wilder, emphasized his desire for significant fights as he approaches the later stages of his career at the age of 41. As Joshua’s upcoming bout with Dubois looms, the question remains: will Joshua ever agree to face Zhilei Zhang in the ring?
As the boxing world awaits the outcome of Joshua’s upcoming fight and evaluates his future opponents, the possibility of a matchup with Zhilei Zhang continues to intrigue fans and pundits alike. Zhang’s bold accusations and unwavering confidence in his abilities add an extra layer of anticipation to a potential clash with Joshua. Whether Joshua will heed Zhang’s challenge and agree to a long-awaited rematch remains to be seen. Until then, speculation and debate will continue surrounding the potential showdown between these two heavyweight contenders.