On September 23, boxing fans are in for a thrilling rematch between Joe Joyce and Zhilei Zhang, two heavyweight contenders aiming for redemption and glory. The stage is set at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, and the world will be watching as these fighters face off once again.
Zhilei Zhang, a former silver medalist in the 2008 Olympics, made his professional debut in 2014. At 40 years old, Zhang’s journey to this rematch has been marked by both triumph and adversity. In 2022, he suffered a controversial loss to Filip Hrgovic, but he bounced back in April by defeating Joe Joyce via TKO, leaving Joyce with a battered right eye that forced the ringside doctor to intervene. This victory secured Zhang’s place in the boxing world and set the stage for this highly anticipated rematch.
However, Joyce, known as “Juggernaut,” activated his rematch clause despite warnings from Zhang’s team. Terry Lane, Zhang’s manager, cautioned that facing Zhang again could result in a severe beating for Joyce, potentially even jeopardizing his career. Regardless of the risks, Joyce is determined to prove himself and climb back to the top of the heavyweight division.
Zhang vs Joyce 2: Stats
Joe Joyce, hailing from London, England, boasts an impressive pre-fight record of 15-0, with 14 of those wins coming by way of knockout. At 37 years old, he stands at a towering 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm) and weighs in at 255.7 pounds (116 kg). Joyce fights in the orthodox style and currently holds the WBO interim heavyweight champion title.
Zhilei Zhang, nicknamed “Big Bang,” represents Zhoukou, Henan, China. With a pre-fight record of 24-1-1, including 19 wins by knockout, Zhang is a formidable opponent. At 39 years old, he shares Joyce’s height and reaches 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm), but he tips the scales at 271.6 pounds (123 kg) and fights as a southpaw. Zhang’s previous accomplishments include being the former WBO Oriental heavyweight champion.
As the date for this epic rematch approaches, the contrasting styles and backgrounds of these two fighters promise an exhilarating showdown. Zhang’s power and southpaw stance will test Joyce’s skills and determination, while Joyce’s pursuit of redemption adds an intriguing layer to the story.
Boxing enthusiasts and sports fans alike will have their eyes fixed on the OVO Arena Wembley, eager to witness the outcome of Zhang vs. Joyce 2. In the unforgiving world of heavyweight boxing, where one punch can change everything, this rematch has the potential to be a career-defining moment for both fighters.