Filip Hrgovic, a representative of the super heavyweight division who previously bested the interim WBO champion, Zhang Zhilei, shared his anticipation for the rematch between Zhilei and Joe Joyce.
Hrgovic, the Croatian boxer, opined that Joyce, the Briton, could only hope for a victory if Zhilei arrives for the fight in less than optimal condition.
"This rematch will be much tougher for Joyce because when you see the first fight you just don’t see the way how he can beat him, because he’s very slow, he don’t move his head, he receive a lot of punches.And the fact is, Zhang from his southpaw stance neutralized his jab. Joyce’s best weapon is his jab. Against southpaw, it’s not so dangerous. It’s a very hard task for Joyce to beat him."
"Only way is if Zhang don’t come in good shape. If he relaxes. Because the fact is Zhang is getting tired after six, seven round, and if he comes relaxed and not in good shape I think Joyce can beat him. But, like I said, Zhang is faster and a more accurate puncher, and it will be a hard task for Joyce.," Hrgovic was quoted as saying by Boxing Social.
As a reminder, the Zhilei - Joyce rematch is scheduled for September 23 at the OVO Arena Wembley in London.