In a stunning display of power and precision, Zhilei Zhang delivered a knockout punch to Deontay Wilder in the fifth round of their highly anticipated bout. The 41-year-old Chinese heavyweight connected with a perfectly timed counter right hook that left Wilder dazed and defenseless. Seizing the opportunity, Zhang unleashed another devastating right hand, planting the American fighter hard on the canvas. This knockout is likely the end of Wilder’s storied career, as Zhang’s triumph adds another highlight to his impressive resume.
Earlier in the night, Daniel Dubois showcased his resilience and skill by stopping Filip Hrgovic in the eighth round due to severe cuts. Dubois, with a record of 21-2 and 20 KOs, overcame significant adversity, including an early cut on Hrgovic’s right eye in the second round and another on the left eye a few rounds later. The ringside doctor advised the referee to halt the bout, securing Dubois the IBF ‘interim’ belt and a mandatory position for a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
The night also featured Dmitry Bivol defending his WBA light-heavyweight world title against Malik Zinad. Bivol, now 23-0 with 11 KOs, dominated the fight, flooring Zinad in the opening round with a three-punch combination. Bivol’s technical skills was on full display as he secured a sixth-round stoppage, setting up an undisputed light heavyweight championship fight against Artur Beterbiev in Riyadh.
The undercard saw Hamzah Sheeraz stopping Ammo Williams in the eleventh round, Nick Ball winning the WBA featherweight world title by split decision against Ray Ford, and Willy Hutchinson defeating Craig Richards by unanimous decision in a thrilling encounter.
