Chinese heavyweight Zhang aims for the top after impressive KO; promoter Hearn plans Chisora route
- Henan 37-year-old Zhang Zhilei registers a 22nd straight win against Devin Vargas
- The two-metre tall southpaw has amassed 17 KO wins in six year professional career
Zhang Zhilei, who had not fought in over a year, dispatched wily veteran Devin Vargas with a devastating display of punch power in Florida, and the 37-year-old Henan native’s representatives are now eyeing bigger stages.
Fighting on the undercard of Devin Haney vs Yuriorkis Gamboa at the Hard Rock Live venue, “Big Bang” Zhang ended the fight with a concussive counter left hand that sent his American opponent hurtling backwards to the canvas where he would remain. It was Zhang’s 17th KO win in a six-year professional career.
The southpaw, now ranked 11 by the WBO, has previously spoken of his “dream” to fight heavyweight king Anthony Joshua in China, and he has history with the Watford fighter. Zhang had to settle for silver at the 2012 London Games after losing out to the Briton in the heavyweight final.
Olympic gold proved to be a massive springboard for Joshua, who has gone on to superstardom and is the reigning WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO heavyweight champion. He will reportedly have the opportunity to become the undisputed heavyweight champion in an expected two-fight deal with WBC champion Tyson Fury to play out next year.
Zhang’s adviser Terry Lane is aiming high with his charge.
