Zhilei Zhang Shares Return Timeline – Retirement Not in the Cards

42-year-old Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang (27–3–1, 22 KOs) has confirmed he has no plans to retire, stating that he expects to be back in the ring before the end of 2025.

“42 is not the end — it’s the beginning of a new chapter.

I haven’t lowered my fists yet… I turned pro at 31, which is when most Chinese fighters start thinking about retirement. I’m over 40 now, but for me, age is just a number. I know I can still perform at a high level.

My body feels good. I’ve never even considered retiring. But if the day comes when my body no longer functions the way it should — then maybe it’s time to walk away.

Right now, we’re discussing next steps — opponent, date, and venue. I hope to return before the year ends,” Zhang said on his YouTube channel Zhilei Zhang.

Zhang last fought on February 22, suffering a sixth-round knockout loss to Agit Kabayel in a bout for the interim WBC heavyweight title.