WBO interim heavyweight champion Jiray Zhang is confident in his ability to knock out Joseph Parker early in their upcoming 12-round bout set for this Friday on DAZN PPV at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Chan (26-1-1, 21 KOs) is not taking former WBC champion Parker (34-3, 23 KOs) lightly, despite Parker’s upset victory over former WBC champion Deontay Wilder last December.
After securing a knockout win over Joe Joyce, Chan is feeling self-assured as he prepares to defend his title against Parker.
Zhang’s mindset
“I only take on tough opponents. To be tough, you have to defeat tough opponents. It’s the necessary route to the championship,” said Zhilei Zhang.
“I’m still focused on my mission. I am grateful to all my fans worldwide and in China. They inspire me, and I carry their support with me,” Zhang added.
Chan expressed his thoughts on the upcoming fight with Parker, emphasizing the lack of trash talk between them, unlike his previous experiences with opponents.
Parker presents a different challenge compared to Joyce, and Chan is gearing up for a strategic battle against the 31-year-old New Zealander.
Metaphor for the fight
“I believe our fists will do the talking. I am training in the depths of hell. The gates of hell will open, unleashing a powerful force that will overwhelm the other person [Parker]. It’s about proving a point,” Chan stated.
When asked if he envisions an early knockout against Parker, Chan responded positively, indicating his readiness to end the fight swiftly.
