When assessing former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder’s attributes, Zhilei Zhang doesn’t hold back. Zhang rates Wilder’s punch resistance at a mere “3” and his heart at a slightly more respectable “5” leading up to their upcoming bout in Riyadh. This stark assessment speaks volumes about Zhang’s confidence in his own abilities and his belief in exploiting Wilder’s weaknesses.
Zhang’s low rating of Wilder’s punch resistance likely stems from the stark image of Wilder crumbling in his fights against Tyson Fury. Wilder’s inability to withstand Fury’s blows, despite Zhang’s opinion on Fury’s punching power, showcased Wilder’s vulnerable chin. The fact that Fury hasn’t seemed as dominant in subsequent fights only adds weight to the perception that Wilder’s chin is suspect. To succeed against Zhang, Wilder will need to find a way to avoid absorbing punishing blows.
In contrast to Wilder’s perceived shortcomings, Zhang exudes confidence in his own abilities. A telling comparison is drawn with Joseph Parker’s fight against both Zhang and Wilder, highlighting how Parker’s face bore more marks from his bout with Zhang. Zhang’s belief in his punching power and ability to impose his will on Wilder is unmistakable. With the memory of his commanding victory over Joe Joyce fresh, Zhang is poised to deliver a similar result against Wilder.
Wilder’s mental state heading into the fight is called into question, as Zhang suggests that promoter Eddie Hearn’s words may have emboldened Wilder. The expectation for a knockout win places added pressure on Wilder, who may be compelled to take more risks in the ring. Zhang’s skepticism about Wilder’s bravado and the lack of a knockout record serves as a subtle jab at Wilder’s perceived vulnerabilities.
While acknowledging Tyson Fury’s success in defeating Wilder, Zhang questions Fury’s natural punching power. Zhang’s implication is clear – while Fury may have bested Wilder, it was more a testament to Wilder’s chin than Fury’s knockout prowess. Zhang’s confidence in his own knockout ability is palpable, as he envisions replicating his past successes in the ring against Wilder. The prospect of “getting the lights out” for Wilder adds a tantalizing edge to the impending showdown.
Zhilei Zhang’s bold predictions and unwavering confidence underscore his readiness to face Deontay Wilder. With a keen eye on exploiting Wilder’s vulnerabilities and showcasing his own power, Zhang exudes a sense of purpose and determination. As the stage is set for their clash in Riyadh, all eyes will be on Zhang to see if he can live up to his audacious claims and emerge victorious against the formidable Wilder.