Salas: “We made a lot of mistakes in the first fight with Zhilei”

Andrew Karlov Sept. 6, 2023, 9:18 a.m.
Zhang Zhilei - Joe Joyce. Getty Images
Zhang Zhilei - Joe Joyce. Getty Images

Joe Joyce (15-1, 14 KOs) after losing in April admitted that he underestimated Zhang Zhilei (25-1-1, 20 KOs). In two and a half weeks, the Briton will have the opportunity to rematch. But it wasn't just the Olympic heavyweight vice-champion from Rio (2016) who underestimated the Chinese veteran. His coach Ismael Salas also did not expect serious problems from the Chinese.

“We are working hard and correcting the mistakes of the first battle. I don't want to take anything away from Zhang, he did a great job, but we made a lot of mistakes and I believe that we will win the rematch. Not only did Joe underestimate his opponent a bit, I must admit, too. Remember my words, the second fight will look very different, ”Salas is convinced.

The rematch is due to take place on September 23 in London. At stake, as in the first fight, will be the WBO heavyweight belt in the intermediate version and the status of a mandatory contender for the full WBO title.

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