Wilder vs Zhang 2024: Summary, Date, Venue, Rounds, Highlights, Stats, League, Match Analysis, Next Fixtures And Everything To Know
On June 1, 2024, the boxing world witnessed an electrifying clash between Zhilei Zhang and former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. The fight took place in Saudi Arabia, and while it wasn’t a thriller throughout, the final moment left a lasting impression.
The Fighters
Deontay Wilder
- Nickname: The Bronze Bomber
- Record: Former WBC heavyweight champion
- Style: Explosive punching power, particularly his right hand
- Background: Wilder had previously held the WBC title and was known for his devastating knockout ability.
Zhilei Zhang
- Nickname: Big Bang
- Record: Rising heavyweight contender
- Style: Technical prowess, strong fundamentals
- Background: Zhang, a Chinese boxer, aimed to make a statement on the international stage.
The Fight
Venue and Event
The fight took place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the Queensberry vs. Matchroom event. The arena was buzzing with anticipation as the two heavyweights stepped into the ring.
Round-by-Round Recap
Round 1
- Both fighters started cautiously, feeling each other out.
- Zhang used his jab effectively, maintaining distance.
- Wilder attempted to find openings for his powerful right hand but was mostly unsuccessful.
Round 2
- Zhang continued to control the pace with his technical skills.
- Wilder tried to close the gap but struggled to land significant shots.
- The crowd sensed the tension building.
Round 3
- Zhang’s footwork impressed, as he circled and countered.
- Wilder occasionally unleashed his trademark right hand, but Zhang evaded well.
- The fight remained competitive.
Round 4
- Zhang maintained his disciplined approach, frustrating Wilder.
- Wilder’s corner urged him to be more aggressive.
- The audience wondered when the fireworks would ignite.
Round 5
- The turning point!
- Zhang unleashed a sweeping right hook that caught Wilder flush.
- Wilder went down but beat the count.
- Zhang followed up with another right hand, sending Wilder stumbling.
- The referee stepped in, and the fight was stopped at 1:51 of Round 5.
- Result: Zhilei Zhang won by TKO.
Zhang’s Victory
- Zhang’s victory catapulted him into the heavyweight title conversation.
- He had successfully neutralized Wilder’s right hand, a feat few had achieved.
- Zhang expressed respect for Wilder’s power but proved that he could handle it.
- Fans speculated about a potential title shot for Zhang in the near future.
Other Fights on the Card
- Daniel Dubois defeated Filip Hrgovic via TKO in Round 8.
- Dmitrii Bivol © defeated Malik Zinad via TKO in Round 6.
- Hamzah Sheeraz defeated Austin Williams via TKO in Round 11.
- Nick Ball defeated Raymond Ford via split decision.
- Willy Hutchinson defeated Craig Richards via unanimous decision.
Zhang’s Post-Fight Remarks
- Zhang acknowledged Wilder’s punching power: “He punches hard. I give a lot of respect to him; he’s a hard puncher.”
