Dear fans and friends, the highly anticipated WBO Transitional Heavyweight Title Zhang Zhilei vs Joe Joyce rematch has entered the final countdown. The weight data of the two warriors has been released a few days ago, let's take a look at this "Eastern Dragon VS Western Bull" matchup, and what is the current situation between the two sides.
First, the weight was announced, and both set career highs
On September 24, the final pre-match procedure of the King of Fighters Tournament, the weighing ceremony, was officially held. The physical data of the two contestants are as follows:
Challenger Joe Joyce: 281 lbs (about 127.6 kg)
Defending champion Zhang Zhilei: 287 pounds (about 130.2 kg)
Joyce gained a full 25 pounds from his battle with Zhang in April, which also set a new career record. Joyce's previous record holder was 271 pounds in a showdown with Joseph Parker last September.
Zhang Zhilei weighed 9 pounds more than the previous big battle to reach a new high of 287 pounds, also breaking the previous peak record of 278 pounds.
It can be said that both have chosen the best state of their careers this time to meet the battle of the century.
Second, Joyce's upper body is developed, and Zhang Zhilei's body size is more balanced
According to the observation of the reporter at the scene, Joyce's body shape after gaining weight is obviously much stronger, especially the muscles of the arms and shoulders are very developed. But the abdomen also forms a pronounced "fat pack", where a large amount of fat accumulates.
Zhang Zhilei's body shape looks more even, and the muscle distribution is more balanced. Both sides are strong heavyweights, but with different styles.
Third, the weight gap has been greatly narrowed, and Zhang Zhilei has lost obvious advantages
During the war, Zhang had a 22-pound weight advantage, which largely suppressed Joyce. But now that Joyce has soared 25 pounds, the weight gap between the two has narrowed to only 6 pounds, and Zhang Zhilei's obvious size advantage has basically been lost.
This has a significant impact on tactics. Zhang Zhilei, who has lost his weight advantage, will no longer dominate when he goes head-to-head with his opponent, and needs to play more speed and technical advantages, and cannot be easily contained by his opponent.
Fourth, Joyce went all out, and Zhang Zhilei needed to respond flexibly
Joyce did not hesitate to sacrifice speed for weight, which shows that he has the determination to fight Zhang Zhilei to the end. It is estimated that this time he will use more "raw swallowing" dead-knocking tactics.
In the face of such an opponent, Zhang Zhilei needs to be prepared, not only to defend the crazy output of the enemy, but also to pay attention to his speed and skill, and strive to control the situation. This puts forward higher requirements for Zhang Zhilei's comprehensive quality.
Fifth, let us look forward to Zhang Zhilei's excellent performance
Although the situation is more unfavorable for Zhang Zhilei, this is an opportunity for a real champion to prove his strength. We look forward to Zhang Zhilei continuing to carry forward the Chinese spirit of tenacious struggle, surpassing his opponents, and winning glory for China again!
Regardless of the final outcome, Zhang Zhilei has proved to the world that Chinese boxing has entered the ranks of the top powers. This transitional heavyweight battle is bound to be wonderful, and it has a special taste in the heart. Let's wait and see the pain and birth of history!
I don't know what do you sports fans think? Welcome to leave a message in the comment area to discuss, and welcome to forward this article!