ZHILEI ZHANG and Martin Bakole could have a potential matchup in the works if Turki Alalshikh has his way.
The two heavyweight fighters are being eyed for a future showdown, as reported by ESPN.
Zhang experienced a setback after his victories over Joe Joyce when he was defeated by Joseph Parker on points in March. However, he bounced back strong by stopping former WBC champion Deontay Wilder.
Martin Bakole was previously overlooked in the heavyweight division until his recent impressive performance against Jared Anderson in Los Angeles. Although Anderson showed courage in the ring, Bakole’s power proved to be too much for him. Alalshikh witnessed this display during the Riyadh Season event in America alongside Matchroom and Queensberry.
With champions like Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois tied up with upcoming fights, contenders such as Zhang and Bakole need to remain active. If the proposed fight takes place, Alalshikh is considering hosting it in Africa or China.
“I would love to face Zhang in China in December,” Bakole expressed to Sky Sports.
“I understand His Excellency is interested in arranging the fight in China, and that’s the opportunity I’m seeking. I am prepared to face Zhang in China in front of his supporters. I have a history of fighting abroad, defeating Anderson in America and triumphing over Tony Yoka in Paris. Therefore, I am eager to compete in China and emerge victorious against Zhang in front of his fans. This is a fight I desire and eagerly anticipate.”
Together, Zhang and Bakole have a collective record of 52 fights with just two losses. Notably, both fighters are known for their heavyweight prowess, suggesting that a potential matchup between them would be a thrilling spectacle.