Fight results

A stylistically interesting matchup. A big heavyweight against a smaller one by current standards. A southpaw against an orthodox fighter. But there are other nuances to consider.

Kabayel, in his recent fights, has earned and then confirmed his status as one of the best body punchers in the heavyweight division. The bodies of Makhmudov and Sanchez took significant damage in their encounters with the German boxer.

In addition, Agit pressures well and throws quick, short combinations. Visually, they may seem less focused, but that’s not the case. Kabayel can land solid shots even in close range, and thanks to his good speed, he can do this regularly.

On the other hand, we have the giant, who, unlike Makhmudov, knows how to box. Zhang is an Olympian—an adept boxer with great hand speed and excellent timing. He has a high guard, methodically pursues his opponent, and presents a threat with every punch he throws. As soon as his opponent opens up, he can respond immediately.

It will be interesting to see how Kabayel will break through to mid and close range because from a distance, it’s hard to outwork the quick opponent. But will Zhang be able to keep up with Agit’s speed? The German is quick with his punches, moves well, and creates smart pressure. He also attacks well to the body—a target that Zhang hasn’t been tested on much, as he usually responds with counters.

Zhang is 41, which is quite old for a heavyweight. However, he’s not planning to retire yet. Zhang has plans beyond this fight—he wants to meet with Anthony Joshua, Martin Bakole, and Oleksandr Usyk.

Since turning professional, Zhang has not significantly declined. His hands are still fast, his punches are strong, and his timing remains sharp. With these attributes, there’s still time for exciting fights.

Kabayel is entering the golden period for a heavyweight—he’s 32, and it’s the best age for a fighter in this division. Given his recent successes, Agit enters this period with great confidence.

When it comes to experience, Zhang’s record is certainly more impressive. Since 2022, he has fought Filip Hrgović, Joe Joyce (twice), Parker, and Wilder. He lost twice, but the loss to Hrgović was controversial, and Joseph Parker was knocked down twice.

It’s worth noting that Kabayel has gradually increased his level of opposition, which looks promising. In 2017, he defeated Chisora. Later, he fought solid middleweights. In 2023, he beat a strong Smakici and then Mahmudov. In 2024, he defeated Sanchez. He’s taken all these opponents out of the way by stoppage.

In this case, punch count is an advantage for Kabayel. Zhang targets his punches. He’s not an overly active boxer in the ring. His goal is to create pressure, push his opponent back, and catch them with a punch. For Zhang, this is an effective plan.

Kabayel, on the other hand, creates that intelligent pressure, partly thanks to his punches. He steadily moves forward, cuts off his opponent’s escape routes, and attacks regularly with quick, short combinations. He bursts in close with a punch and constantly targets the body. It’s difficult to defend against fighters like him because they combine constant pressure with fast attacks.

Zhang has been more active. In 2024, he fought twice—losing and then winning. He first lost to Parker in a close fight, and then knocked out Deontay Wilder.

Kabayel fought once in 2024—he knocked out Frank Sanchez. The Cuban couldn’t handle the pressure, nor could his speed or technique save him. He had no answer for Agit and lost in the 7th round.

One-punch knockout power—this is Zhang’s advantage. He hits very hard, and when he lands, it’s very difficult to stay on your feet. He’s the one who destroyed the myth of Joe Joyce’s invulnerable chin.

However, Agit Kabayel’s punch is somewhat underrated. This guy can land hard shots, even though he doesn’t come across as a frightening knockout artist. Working effectively to both the head and the body, he brings tension and creates additional opportunities for his opponent to make a mistake.

Neither Zhang nor Kabayel has shown significant issues with taking a punch. However, it’s important to understand that both fighters have power, and anything can happen when Zhang is in the ring.

Additionally, Kabayel’s dangerous body attacks must be considered. These painful punches can lead to knockouts that even a naturally tough chin won’t necessarily protect against.

Tournaments in Riyadh have become familiar territory for both boxers. They’ve fought their last three bouts there. So there’s no particular advantage for either side in this regard.

Both fighters are in good mental shape. Kabayel is on the rise, while Zhang recently knocked out Wilder and is confident that he shouldn’t have lost to Parker. Both want the win to move on to their next lucrative fights.

However, both need the victory. For Agit, it’s crucial to confirm that his previous successes weren’t a fluke and that he’s ready to raise the level of opposition. For Zhang, it’s important not to have two losses in his last three fights, as it could potentially mean losing access to big matchups.