Wilder’s Trainer Picks a Favorite in Zhang vs. Kabayel

Deontay Wilder’s trainer, Malik Scott, broke down the highly anticipated Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel matchup exclusively for Ready To Fight. The bout for the interim WBC heavyweight title will take place on February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

"Another big heavyweight fight on this card. Big Bang Zhang vs. Kabayel—two strong fighters.

We all know Big Zhang. He comes in with devastating power from that southpaw stance. However, Kabayel’s recent performances have also been very impressive.

Kabayel beat Frank Sanchez, who was a highly decorated amateur. Sanchez was seen as a major threat in the pro ranks—until Kabayel dragged him into deep waters and drowned him there, partly through brutal body attacks.

That’s why this fight is such an intriguing matchup. It’s tough to call a winner. Both guys are coming off career-best victories over top-tier opponents, and now they collide.

This is what boxing is about. If I had to make a pick, I’d give a slight edge to Kabayel. Just a little. I believe he can take this fight into deep waters. We’ve seen what happens to Zhang when he gets there—his skill level drops as the fight goes on.

So, I’d pick Kabayel to win. I’m not sure if it’ll be by stoppage or knockout, but if Agit steps on the gas in the second half of the fight, he should get a stoppage win," Scott shared.

Detailed fight statistics from RTFight can be found via this link.