Zhang Zhilei Calls Out Tyson Fury After Dominating Joe Joyce in Rematch

Zhang Zhilei Calls Out Tyson Fury After Dominating Joe Joyce in Rematch

A Show of Chinese Power

Chinese heavyweight boxer Zhang Zhilei has sent a direct message to WBC champion Tyson Fury, requesting him to “stop talking.” The Chinese boxer, who recently dominated Joe Joyce in their rematch in London, is now targeting a world title bout with heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. In the ring, after his victory, Zhilei spoke through an interpreter expressing his satisfaction with his performance, “I feel very happy; like I said beforehand, it’s going to end sooner. I wanted everyone to see this Chinese power again.”

Overpowering Joe Joyce

Zhang demonstrated his power and prowess in his showdown with Joyce. The rematch saw Zhang dictating the fight against a hesitant Joyce, ending it with a sledgehammer right hand in the third round. This followed their first bout in April, where he had delivered a stunning sixth-round technical knockout, taking the WBO interim heavyweight belt from Joyce. Joyce had no answer to Zhang’s power and speed, resulting in another victory for the Chinese heavyweight.

An Impressive Record

Zhang, a 40-year-old southpaw, extended his professional record to 26 wins, 21 KOs, against one defeat and one draw. His brutal one-two combo ended a contest he was already dominating, marking a significant statement victory. This victory has only added to his appeal, particularly after impressive wins over Joyce, who was considered a potential world champion contender.

Calling Out Tyson Fury

The Chinese heavyweight seems to have his sights set on Tyson Fury, the undefeated WBC champion. In an address to the crowd post-match, he expressed his desire to confront Fury, “I want to ask the audience a question. Do you want to see me shut Tyson Fury up?” His confidence is palpable as he looks forward to challenging the British boxer. Fury is scheduled to return to the ring next month in a crossover bout with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.

A Journey Towards the Top

Zhang’s journey towards the world heavyweight boxing title has been impressive. After his victory against Joyce, he now holds the WBO Interim championship. This could eventually lead him to a mandatory challenge up against current champion Oleksandr Usyk. However, Zhang seems to have another champion in mind. His co-manager, Terry Lane, believes that a win for Zhilei could separate out the heavyweight division, placing Fury, Usyk, and Zhang on top.

Future Considerations

With the potential of a match against Fury, Zhang has a chance to prove himself as one of the elite fighters in his weight class. A fight with Fury could also be a significant money fight, potentially taking place in Saudi Arabia or even China. The Chinese heavyweight is now a step closer to a world heavyweight boxing title shot, and it will be intriguing to see if he can shut Tyson Fury up, as he has promised.