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Heavyweight Boxing Matchups Featuring Top-10 Contenders
Two highly anticipated heavyweight clashes are on the verge of being finalized, involving four top-10 contenders in the division. Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, ranked No. 7 and No. 6 respectively in ESPN’s heavyweight rankings, are currently in the process of sealing a deal for a bout scheduled for June 1 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
Simultaneously, Filip Hrgovic, holding the No. 5 ranking, and Daniel Dubois at No. 9 are also in the final stages of solidifying an agreement to face each other on the same evening, as confirmed by additional sources.
Background and Context
This anticipated matchup is set to take place as part of the undercard for the much-awaited showdown between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, who will be competing for the undisputed light heavyweight championship. The significance of these bouts lies in the fact that both Wilder and Zhang will be entering the ring with a strong desire to secure a victory and maintain their relevance within the heavyweight division.
Wilder, a renowned heavyweight titleholder, faced disappointment with decision losses to Joseph Parker in Riyadh, thereby derailing plans for a potential showdown with Anthony Joshua. On the other hand, Zhang encountered a similar fate with a decision loss to Parker in their recent bout, despite flooring Parker twice during the fight.
Instead of opting for the conventional route of comeback fights, both Wilder and Zhang are choosing to engage in a high-stakes battle that could potentially set the stage for another significant heavyweight fight. The timing of these matchups is particularly intriguing, as the undisputed heavyweight championship bout between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk is scheduled to take place two weeks earlier on May 18 in Riyadh.
Key Fighters and Statistics
Deontay Wilder, known for his exceptional punching power, boasts a record of 43-3-1 with 42 knockouts to his name. Despite being recognized as one of the division’s most formidable punchers, Wilder has suffered three losses in his last four bouts, including two defeats in his trilogy with Tyson Fury.
Zhilei Zhang, on the other hand, is a southpaw puncher with a record of 26-2-1 and 21 knockouts. At 41 years old and weighing 291.5 pounds, Zhang presents a formidable challenge to Wilder, who will give up a significant weight advantage in the upcoming bout. Zhang’s breakout victories over Joe Joyce have raised his profile within the heavyweight division.
Filip Hrgovic, with a perfect record of 17-0 and 14 knockouts, notably triumphed over Zhang in a previous bout, despite facing adversity early in the fight. His subsequent victories over Demsey McKean and Mark De Mori have further solidified his reputation as a rising force in the heavyweight category.
Daniel Dubois, with a record of 20-2 and 19 knockouts, scored a pivotal victory over Jarrell Miller in his last outing, marking a significant milestone in his career. Dubois’ previous losses to Usyk and Joyce serve as important learning experiences as he continues to pursue success in the heavyweight division.
In conclusion, the upcoming heavyweight matchups promise to deliver thrilling and intense action, with each fighter seeking to make a statement and propel themselves towards higher-profile fights in the future.
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