Zhilei Zhang: I Will Knockout Joseph Parker

Heavyweight Zhilei Zhang spoke exclusively with Gambling.com ahead of his March showdown against New Zealand’s Joseph Parker. 

Betting sites, along with the Chinese superstar believe his upcoming battle with Parker will be ‘the most exciting’ fight of the night but predict his power will prove too much for his opponent to contend with.

The fight between Zhang and Parker is the chief support to Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou on March 8 in Saudi Arabia.

Zhang And Parker Could Steal The Show

Speaking about his fight, Zhang said: “I do think my fight against Parker will be very exciting, and possibly the most exciting of the night.

“Under normal circumstances, our fight would be the main event. But these amazing cards in Saudi Arabia presented by His Excellency are so special, that I’m just happy to play a part in one of them.

“The fight vs. Parker will be very different than the fight against Joyce. My preparation, approach, and game plan will be different for Parker. I am expecting a tough fight, but I think I will win by knockout.”

Prior to announcing Parker as his opponent, Zhang confirmed that he was in talks to face former world ruler Deontay Wilder, although negotiations collapsed. 

Despite the bout falling through, Zhang is open to re-opening discussions with Wilder later this year.

“I still think the fight with Wilder is a possibility for the future. I didn’t know if Parker was going to be available in March, but when I learned he was, I was excited for that opportunity, and the organisers and promoters wanted to make that fight.”

On Anthony Joshua, Zhang added: “I think everyone knows I want to fight AJ. We fought in the Olympics in 2012 and he beat me. But that was a long time ago. I am here if they want to do it. I want that fight very much - maybe I can ask him in person come March 8.

“It is also my dream to fight in at home in China someday. Will it be next? I don’t know. But I am working with my promoter to explore the option.”

What Does Zhang Eat In A Day?

Speaking to Gambling.com, Zhang confessed: “I don’t count calories. I eat three meals per day. Breakfast is very important. I normally have 4 egg whites and two whole eggs, meat and veggies as well as oatmeal for breakfast.

“I do focus on protein a lot, but make sure I’m eating vegetables and other nutrients as well. There is a dish called He La Tang from my home province in China. It’s my favourite meal, but I haven’t had it in years because of my training.”