The heavyweight division is buzzing, and one fighter is ready to face a formidable opponent, no matter the risk!
China's Zhilei Zhang, affectionately known as ‘Big Bang,’ has carved out a special place in the hearts of boxing fans. His electrifying personality is matched only by his aggressive and powerful fighting style. However, it's been a while since we've seen this fan favorite in action, with his last bout being in February 2025.
Zhang was on the cusp of a world title opportunity after delivering two spectacular stoppage victories against Joe Joyce in 2023. But a subsequent defeat to Joseph Parker saw him relinquish his WBO Interim title and his coveted spot as mandatory challenger. This was a tough blow for the Zhoukou-born powerhouse.
But here's where it gets interesting... Zhang didn't stay down for long! He made a resounding comeback with a devastating knockout of Deontay Wilder. Yet, his momentum was stalled again in a recent bout against Germany's Agit Kabayel. Now, at 42 years old, this southpaw is hungry for another shot at proving he has what it takes to be a world champion.
Recently, ‘Big Bang’ Zhang has expressed his willingness to step into the ring with some big names like Fabio Wardley, Derek Chisora, and Daniel Dubois. However, despite these desires, he's found himself sidelined, marking over a year since his loss to Kabayel. And this is the part most people miss: the uncertainty of his next move has left fans eager for any news.
But there's a new contender on the horizon, and he's not afraid to call out the big names! Enter Dave Allen, a British heavyweight who is eager to bring Zhang to Sheffield later this year. Allen has openly discussed his plans, which could potentially lead to a challenge for the British heavyweight title. He shared his thoughts with First Round TV, stating, "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 is clear about his intentions: "We are not skipping it [British title level]. I think that Riakporhe-TKV is a great fight, the winner of that fight will probably not box again until autumn, so they have mentioned Zhilei Zhang to me."
His fighting spirit is undeniable: "I have never backed down from anyone in my life and I ain’t going to start with him. So, I am hopeful that I can have a couple fights before but I am here to have a go, all I want to do is entertain everyone."
Allen paints a vivid picture of what a fight between him and Zhang could look like: "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."
This is where the debate truly begins. Allen recently experienced a loss to Arslanbek Makhmudov at Sheffield Arena in October. However, he quickly bounced back this past Saturday, securing a swift 60-second knockout victory over France’s Karim Berredjem.
What do you think? Is Dave Allen's confidence in facing Zhilei Zhang a sign of bravery or a risky gamble? Can he really overcome the power of ‘Big Bang’ Zhang, or will he be another fighter to fall victim to Zhang's devastating power? Share your thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear your take on this potential clash!
