Zhilei Secures Sensational Early Win Over Joyce (PHOTOS)

China's Zhang Zhilei (25-1-1, 20 KOs) scored a remarkable victory over interim WBO heavyweight champion Joe Joyce (15-1, 14 KOs).

The bout took place at the CopperBox Arena in London and headlined the boxing event organized by Queensberry Promotions.

The match started with both fighters sizing each other up. Joyce appeared more active, but Zhilei effectively counterattacked, landing several powerful blows. In the second round, the underdog caught the favorite off guard with a straight left, breaking his nose. The previously undefeated Brit attempted to regain momentum by interrupting his opponent, but the Chinese boxer successfully landed more hits as Joyce struggled to defend.

By the fifth round, Joyce had developed a significant hematoma under his right eye. After a doctor's examination, he was allowed to continue. However, midway through the sixth round, with Joyce's right eye nearly swollen shut, the doctor was consulted again and recommended that the referee stop the fight.

As a result, Zhilei triumphed over Joyce via technical knockout, taking the WBO Interim Champion title and securing his position as a contender for Oleksandr Usyk's main championship.

This defeat marked Joyce's first loss as a professional, while Zhilei celebrated his 25th victory.