Zhilei Zhang. That name in itself is a story that awaits to be told. Today, as he stands at the brink of a rehaul in his brilliant boxing career, it is only necessary to also trace his roots and his journey to this day. Where does the genesis of his story lie? From the lanes of China to the heart of the boxing world.

Zhang is not any random name in the boxing world. He single-handedly has represented his country of origin, China in the elite class of boxing. However, this story is not of a random push to fame or a strategic trajectory. It is in fact a matter of inching from the margins to the center with each fight he undertook in his formative days. This is Zhilei Zhang, the “Big Bang”.

A Sino Represent

In 1983, Zhilei Zhang was born in the rural countryside of Shenqiu County, in the Henan Province of Central China. Even today, he proudly carries the Chinese flag into the ring every time as a symbol of his patriotism. However, a veil of secrecy surrounds his religious beliefs. Since his foray into sports at the young age of 13, when his impressive height of 6 feet was spotted, Zhilei has kept his faith a private matter. Back then, the Chinese Sports Bureau envisioned this young giant joining the rowing team, but fate had other plans. Two years later, the boxing ring emerged as his true calling.

In 1998, Zhang moved to Zhengzhou, China to join a provincial training center. From there, his rise in the boxing world began in earnest. He went on to win a silver medal at the 2004 University Championships and a bronze at the 2007 World Championships. His breakthrough came in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he secured a silver medal, cementing his status as China’s top boxing talent. He tried his luck once again at the 2012 London Olympics, but his Olympic gold dreams were ended by future unified heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, in the qualifier.

Despite the accolades, Zhang’s ambition pushed him to seek greater challenges. Zhang was determined to turn professional, unlike most Chinese athletes who remained amateurs. He made a decision that required significant sacrifice, including leaving the financial support and security provided by the Chinese government.

To the Global Stage

In 2014, Zhang boldly moved to New Jersey, USA. The watershed moment came under the guidance of Dino Duva, a veteran boxing promoter. This transition was fraught with difficulties. It included a lackluster debut and a series of management shifts. However, Zhang’s determination never wavered. In 2017, Shaanxi George, a former cruiserweight, came in as Zhang’s head coach. He recognized Zhang’s raw talent and athleticism. Then, he began refining his skills and instilling a more structured training regimen.

Zhang’s professional career saw a mix of victories and losses. He racked up 11 consecutive wins from September 2016 to November 2020. But, he also faced challenges. For instance, a draw against Jerry Forrest in 2021 and a close decision loss to Filip Hrgović in 2022. However, it was his consecutive victories against Joe Joyce, for the WBO interim heavyweight title, in 2023 that propelled him into the global spotlight. In these fights, the Chinese fighter showcased his formidable power and skill by defeating Joyce both times through knockouts. It solidified his reputation as a top contender in the heavyweight division.

Chinese Fame, Zhilei Zhang

At 41 years old, Zhang shows no signs of slowing down. Tomorrow, he fights Deontay Wilder to shoot back from the devastating majority decision loss he was given by Joseph Parker last year. His noteworthy success in the ring has increased his visibility in China.

He continues to remain in those roots. For instance, Zhang’s return to China in 2023 was met with overwhelming support, highlighting his rising popularity. This comes in spite of boxing not being a mainstream sport in China. Zhang’s achievements as a rare Asian Heavyweight have sparked interest and opened doors for future generations of Chinese boxers to go pro outside of China.

His son, Jingze—Mandarin for “respect the rules” continues to remain in China. However, the family now lives a dual life. One in their homeland, and the other that gave Zhang global recognition, the US. His son is known to Zhang’s U.S. contingent as Zach. Will the Big Bang be able to continue his reign as the ultimate Chinese heavyweight? Tomorrow’s fight will answer that question. What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below.