Joseph Parker (34-3, 23 KOs) finds himself as the underdog against the formidable Zhang (26-1-1, 21 KOs), dubbed the ‘boogeyman’ of the heavyweight division due to his immense power and size. Despite the odds, Parker remains unfazed, eager to defy expectations once again.
During the pre-fight press conference, Parker addressed the skepticism, acknowledging Zhang as the favorite but expressing confidence in showcasing his skills on fight night. He emphasized feeling dangerous and vowed that Zhang would feel the danger too.
Parker’s recent triumph over Deontay Wilder showcased his potential, a feat he attributes to his trusted team, including trainer Andy Lee, recommended by Tyson Fury. Acknowledging the challenge ahead, Parker sees himself as a vastly improved fighter since his last defeat in 2022.
Zhang, the 2008 Beijing Olympic silver medallist, has twice defeated Joe Joyce, who previously handed Parker his first knockout defeat. Despite this, Parker and his manager, David Higgins, believe in the fighter’s transformation and predict an emphatic victory.
In a rare move, a one-way rematch clause has been agreed upon, indicating Parker’s confidence in his ability to secure a win. However, the 1.98m Chinese giant, Zhang, remains resolute, asserting his dominance and expressing doubt about the need for a rematch.
Both fighters exude confidence that their encounter will be unforgettable, promising a great night of fights. The anticipation builds as these two heavyweights prepare to clash, with Parker aiming to further solidify his status as a boxing force to be reckoned with.
[orginal text by Newshub]
