Chinese heavyweight boxer Zhilei Zhang has recently made headlines by expressing his preference for a title shot against Oleksandr Usyk over a rematch with Joe Joyce. This comes after Joe Joyce activated the rematch clause following his loss against Zhang on 15 April.
Zhilei Zhang wants Oleksandr Usyk
Zhang is widely regarded as one of the most talented heavyweight boxers in the world today. His performance against Joe Joyce certainly did not disappoint. However, Zhang believes that his skills would be better utilized against Usyk, who is the current WBO heavyweight champion.
In a recent interview with Boxing Social, Zhang explained his preference for a title shot over a rematch, stating that “I believe that I am ready to take on the best in the world, and I believe that Usyk is the best. I want to prove myself against him, and I believe that I have what it takes to win.”
Rematch against Joyce? Not now, says Zhang
Zhang’s confidence is certainly not misplaced. ‘Big Bang’ has a record of 25 wins (20 by knockout) and 1 loss, His performance against Joe Joyce demonstrated that he has the skills and determination necessary to compete at the highest level. However, Usyk is a formidable opponent, with a record of 19 wins (13 by knockout) and 0 losses.
Zhang’s preference for a title shot against Usyk is a wise one. Usyk is widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world today, and a victory over him would cement Zhang’s place among the elite heavyweight boxers of his generation. Moreover, Usyk has been looking for a worthy opponent to defend his title against, and Zhang certainly fits the bill.
Of course, this is not to say that Zhang is not interested in a rematch with Joe Joyce. In fact, Zhang has stated that he would be willing to take on Joyce again if the opportunity arises. However, given the choice between a rematch with Joyce and a shot at Usyk’s title, Zhang clearly prefers the latter.
Zhang’s preference for a title shot against Oleksandr Usyk over a rematch with Joe Joyce is a wise one. Zhang has demonstrated his skill and determination in the ring, and a victory over Usyk would cement his place among the elite heavyweight boxers of his generation.
However, this is not to say that Zhang is not interested in a rematch with Joyce. If the opportunity arises, Zhang will be ready to take on Joyce once again.
How do you think Zhang will fare against Usyk?
