Who subsequent for towering Chinese language southpaw heavyweight Zhilei Zhang? It won’t be Anthony Joshua, not subsequent, not any time quickly. So says “Massive Bang” himself, who not too long ago stated on the MMA Hour that he totally believes AJ is fearful of him, with Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn additionally lower than eager on the combat based on the 41-year-old. And now, in talking with Sky Sports activities, Zhang’s co-manger Terry Lane (son of the nice third man, Mills Lane) has doubled down on the Joshua is afraid to combat Zhang claims.
The 2 did combat as amateurs within the 2012 Olympics, and Joshua dropped Zhang on the best way to a factors win and eventual gold. However Zhang has craved a shot at revenge within the professional ranks ever since. However Joshua received’t give him the chance, say Staff-Zhang.
“I believe it’s the worst saved secret in boxing that AJ desires no a part of Zhilei, “Lane stated. “There’s been alternatives for them to combat. It’s simply very clear that there’s no curiosity on AJ’s finish; he simply desires to keep away from the combat, which is unlucky. A world title shot is the purpose (for Zhang). AJ and [Tyson] Fury are the principle wishes for Zhang – these are two guys he desires to combat. I don’t know if [Oleksandr] Usyk is critical about transferring again all the way down to cruiserweight, however I believe Zhilei has greater than earned a shot in opposition to Fury and AJ. The issue with Zhilei is he’s feared. He’s a dangerous combat for anyone. He ruined the plans for [Joe] Joyce to combat Fury, and he ruined the plans for Deontay Wilder to combat AJ……so getting these guys within the ring is proving to be robust.”
Zhang, who might or might not field a large homecoming combat in China subsequent, may combat Joseph Parker in a return combat subsequent, whereas Martin Bakole has known as for a go at Zhang. As Lane identified, Zhang is well-ranked by all 4 governing our bodies, and as such, he’s in a superb place. For us followers, a professional rumble between Zhang and Joshua could be greater than welcome. Joshua, Hearn says ceaselessly, “will combat anybody.” However will AJ get it on with “Massive Bang?”
Subsequent up for Joshua, it’s Daniel Dubois and an opportunity at regaining a slice of the heavyweight crown. After that, ought to he win, Joshua might be wanting, as will all the highest massive males, at difficult the winner of the Usyk-Fury rematch. Would possibly Zhang discover himself not noted within the chilly on this regard?
Lane is adamant his man ought to get his shot, whether or not he will get revenge in a rematch with Parker or not.
“He’s earned his shot,” Lane stated of Zhang.
