The fight between interim WBO heavyweight champion Zhang Zhilei and Deontay Wilder may take place on March 9 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
According to Sports Illustrated reporter Chris Mannix, Zhilei will appear on the undercard of the Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou fight. The Chinese boxer's team wants Wilder to be his opponent, and the boxing night organizers like the idea.
Zhilei, 40, last stepped into the ring in September 2023, defeating Joseph Joyce by third-round knockout. He has 26 wins (21 by knockout), one loss and one draw on his record.
In December 2023, Wilder was defeated by Joseph Parker by unanimous decision of judges. The 38-year-old Deontay has 43 wins (42 by knockout), one draw and three losses.