Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang has expressed interest in facing Derek Chisora following Chisora's unanimous decision victory over Joe Joyce on Saturday at London's O2 Arena. The win has potentially revived Chisora's career, and Zhang sees an opportunity for a future bout.
Chisora attempted to taunt Joyce at their weigh-in by wearing a mask depicting Zhang's face, referencing Joyce's two previous stoppage losses to Zhang. Despite Joyce's apparent anger at the gesture, Zhang found it amusing and is open to fighting Chisora next.
"I thought it was funny [Chisora's mask], I had a good laugh. I received so many messages on Friday morning here in the States because of it. Derek Chisora has expressed interest in fighting me in China in the past. Now that he is coming off of an impressive win, maybe it’s a possibility. My main focus is making sure I fight before the end of the year."
The 40-year-old Chisora, after his win over Joyce, announced his intention to have two more fights before retiring. His former promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested Johnny Fisher as another potential opponent, giving Chisora multiple options moving forward.
While Joyce has suffered three defeats in his last four fights, casting doubt on his world title aspirations, Zhang believes the decision to retire should be Joyce's alone.
"I thought it was a tough and entertaining fight, it was a great fight for the London boxing fans. He and his team need to strategize about what to do next. I don’t think anyone should say when a fighter should retire. That’s up to them and their families."
Read more about the guy who won yesterday via UD here.
Image Credit: DAZN