Zhilei Zhang, the former WBO mandatory challenger, and Deontay Wilder are set to face each other in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on June 1. This highly anticipated match is part of a 5 vs 5 boxing tournament. Both boxers enter this fight after challenging recent matches. Zhang suffered a loss to Joseph Parker by majority decision on March 8, while Wilder displayed a lackluster performance against the same opponent last December 23.
Zhang recently spoke about his upcoming fight with Wilder. In an interview with FightHub TV, he stated, "I know he’s coming to beat me. I know he’s coming to try to win and has something to prove. So do I. Saturday night’s going to be fantastic." Zhang also mentioned Wilder's previous performance against Parker stating, "He didn’t look so good in that fight. I don’t know what he’s been through personally in his training camp, but I know this fight he’s prepared for. I think he’s coming, trying to win." He maintained respect for Wilder's capabilities by adding, "He is still the dangerous Deontay Wilder from a few years ago; at least, I look at him that way."
As both fighters prepare for their bout, the pressure mounts not just for victory but for career rejuvenation. For Zhang, fighting out of China with a record of 26-2-1 with 21 KOs, this match could reinforce his relevance in heavyweight boxing after his recent setback against Parker. Meanwhile, American boxer Deontay Wilder (43-3-1, 42 KOs) returns after nearly two years away from the ring followed by the recent underwhelming performance.
