Joseph Parker clinched the title of interim WBO heavyweight champion, outlasting Zhilei Zhang over 12 rounds to snatch a majority decision victory. Despite hitting the canvas twice, Parker outshone his opponent with relentless energy and sharper punches, clinching the win with scores of 115-111, 114-112, and one judge seeing it as a draw at 113-113.
Parker, the ex-WBO heavyweight kingpin, mentioned post-fight that a rematch with “Big Bang” Zhang is already in the pipeline. However, the appetite for round two among fans might be scant, given the spectacle in Riyadh.
Zhang, tipping the scales at a hefty 291 pounds, seemed to drift through the bout, only sparking to life in the third and eighth rounds to send Parker tumbling. The first was a potent left straight to the noggin, possibly crunching Parker’s nose, and the second, a fierce right hook. Beyond these moments, Zhang’s presence was barely felt.
It was an odd display, with Zhang’s lackadaisical effort drawing groans. In contrast, Parker, the sprightlier and zestier of the two, showcased resilience, bouncing back from the knockdowns and landing some solid punches.
Parker’s resurgence is notable, especially after his loss to Joe Joyce, with victories over heavy-hitters like Deontay Wilder and Zhang, making them look rather ordinary by comparison.
Zhang’s lackluster showing raises questions. Where was the fire, the strategy, the stamina? And looking ahead, what does Zhang have left in the tank? Can he flip the script in a rematch with Parker?
But the real talk is about Parker – what’s next for him? There are more tantalizing fights out there that fans are itching to see.
Who do you reckon will come out on top if Parker and Zhang go toe-to-toe again? Share your thoughts!
