British heavyweight Dave Allen has identified Zhilei Zhang as his next target, insisting he is ready for the dangerous southpaw and “won’t back down.”
Zhang, 42, has not fought since February 2025, when he fell short against Agit Kabayel. The Chinese contender had previously scored statement stoppage wins over Joe Joyce and a knockout victory over Deontay Wilder, but a defeat to Joseph Parker cost him his WBO Interim title and mandatory position.
Now Allen says talks have already taken place about bringing Zhang to Sheffield later this year. “I think that it is going to be Zhilei Zhang. I think Zhilei Zhang and me is going to happen. We have already spoke about it and I am happy to do it, as well. I’m not bothered,” Allen told First Round TV.
Allen made it clear he is not looking to sidestep the challenge. “I have never backed down from anyone in my life and I ain’t going to start with him,” he said. “If I box Zhilei Zhang, one of two things will happen; I will get flattened for the first time or he will be knackered after three rounds and I will beat him on points.”
The Sheffield native is coming off a quick rebound victory after halting Karim Berredjem inside 60 seconds last Saturday, following an October loss to Arslanbek Makhmudov.
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