Joseph Parker, from New Zealand, recently secured a win against Deontay Wilder in December's "Day of Reckoning." Zhilei Zhang carries the title of Interim WBO Heavyweight Champion after a definitive 3rd round knockout against Joe Joyce in September of the previous year.
Mike Coppinger's Twitter post stated, "Joseph Parker will fight Zhilei Zhang in the March 8 co-feature to Anthony Joshua-Francis Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, sources tell ESPN. Parker coming off dominant win over Deontay Wilder. Zhang scored back-to-back stoppage wins over Joe Joyce last year. Terrific co-main."
Earlier comments by Joseph Parker to talkSPORT Boxing revealed his eagerness to compete soon. "I’d like to get out as soon as I can... So listen, I’m training every day." Zhilei Zhang also voiced a willingness to face Parker on Gambling.com: "I say Joseph Parker but does he dare to fight me? ... I’m open to everything."
The expectation is that the victor may progress towards a title contention — firmly placing this fighting matchup under a global spotlight.
Details for this boxing event will be divulged further at an upcoming press conference arranged in London.
Joseph Parker has kept fans engaged showing a clip from his training camp on Instagram with the caption "Here we go again," alluding to his rigorous preparation for his next auspicious encounter inside the ring.
This bout not only promises intense physical competition but also significant advancement opportunities within the heavyweight division for both combatants.