### Zhilei Zhang Aims to Overpower Deontay Wilder in Saudi Arabia Showdown

Zhilei Zhang is set to face Deontay Wilder this weekend, tipping the scales at a colossal 300 pounds, as he plans to physically dominate ‘The Bronze Bomber’ using a strategy inspired by Tyson Fury.

The Chinese heavyweight will clash with Wilder as part of the Matchroom vs. Queensberry ‘5 vs 5’ card in Saudi Arabia. This event features top fighters from the stables of promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren. Zhang, who has previously worked with Warren, represents Queensberry, while Wilder has ended his feud with Hearn to lead the Matchroom side.

Zhang’s aspirations go beyond the unique team format; he sees this fight as an opportunity to cement his place in the heavyweight title conversation. Despite both fighters experiencing setbacks—Zhang and Wilder both lost to Joseph Parker in their last bouts—they remain formidable contenders.

Standing at an imposing 6ft 6in, Zhang plans to use his size to his advantage, much like Tyson Fury did in his fights against Wilder. Fury’s increased weight contributed to his powerful knockout victories over Wilder, a strategy Zhang aims to replicate.

“I have actually put on a lot of weight for this fight to prepare for Deontay Wilder,” Zhang told Metro.co.uk. “From watching Tyson Fury’s fights against Wilder, I believe Fury had wonderful success when he put on a lot of weight. He was punching a lot harder and was also able to absorb Wilder’s power.”

Currently weighing around 295 pounds, Zhang believes this weight gain will alter the dynamics of the fight, giving him an edge over Wilder. Despite Wilder’s age of 38 and recent losses, his right hand remains one of the most devastating weapons in boxing.

“I don’t know how much he has changed over the years,” Zhang acknowledged. “But one thing that certainly hasn’t changed and will probably never change is the horrific right hand that can finish anyone. So when I go in that ring, I am doing it with extra caution.”

Zhang’s own power is not to be underestimated. He made headlines last year by stopping Joe Joyce twice, a feat that solidified his reputation as a formidable puncher. Zhang is confident that if his punch lands, it will be lights out for Wilder or any other opponent.

“For Wilder or anyone else, as long as my punch connects, they are going to sleep,” Zhang declared.

While the team format is a novel aspect of this event, Zhang’s primary focus remains his individual career goals. At 41, he understands the urgency of securing a world title shot. With the heavyweight belts currently held by Oleksandr Usyk, Zhang is determined to position himself as the next contender.

“My goal has never changed – to fight for that world title belt,” he emphasized. “I want the belt. I am not sure which belt will be available next or what the circumstances will be but my goal has never changed and we will be waiting for our chance.”

As the boxing world watches, Zhang’s fight against Wilder not only promises an exciting clash but also significant implications for the future of the heavyweight division.