Joseph Parker Overcomes Two Knockdowns to Edge Out Zhilei Zhang by Majority Decision
By Dong Secuya
PhilBoxing.com
Sat, 09 Mar 2024
In a thrilling showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Joseph Parker of New Zealand faced off against the formidable Zhilei Zhang of China for the WBO Interim world heavyweight title. Despite enduring two knockdowns, Parker showcased remarkable resilience and tactical prowess to secure a hard-fought victory by majority decision on Friday night (Saturday morning in Manila).
The bout commenced with a strategic exchange as both fighters sought to gauge each other's strengths and weaknesses. Parker diligently worked to establish his range while Zhang aimed to capitalize on opportune moments to strike. Zhang's strategy proved effective in the third round when he landed a precise left straight to the middle that sent Parker to the canvas for the first time in the match.
Undeterred by the setback, Parker displayed exemplary boxing skills throughout the contest, effectively neutralizing Zhang's offense with his deft footwork and sharp combinations. Despite facing adversity, Parker remained composed and stayed true to his game plan, steadily accumulating points as the fight progressed.
In the eighth round, Zhang unleashed a powerful left-right combo that once again floored Parker, showcasing his formidable punching power. However, Parker exhibited remarkable resilience, swiftly recovering from the knockdown to resume his calculated approach for the remainder of the bout.
The judges' scores reflected the closely contested nature of the fight, with Zoltan Enyedi scoring it 113-113, Steve Gray favoring Parker with a score of 114-112, and Patrick Morley also giving the nod to Parker with a score of 115-111. PhilBoxing similarly scored the bout 114-112 in favor of Parker.
Parker came into the fight after scoring a stunning unanimous decision victory over the highly feared Deontay Wilder last December also in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia while Zhang came from two impressive two knockout victories over Joe Joyce of the UK.
With this hard-earned victory, the 32-year-old Parker solidifies his status as a top contender in the heavyweight division. A rematch clause in the contract ensures that Parker will once again square off against the 40-year-old Zhang, promising another electrifying showdown between these two formidable competitors.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Dong Secuya.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Floyd Mayweather Vs. Manny Pacquiao Set for Blockbuster Professional Rematch Streaming Live Globally on Netflix Saturday, September 19
Tue, 24 Feb 2026Zulueta, Bactol, Dologuin, Almacen Score Knockout Wins in Thailand (PHOTOS)
By Carlos Costa, Tue, 24 Feb 2026Francisco wins PBF flyweight title
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 24 Feb 2026San Diego’S Boxing Stars Julius Ballo and Jonny Mansour to Headline the Inaugural Edition of Sd Fight Night on April 18, 2026, at Frontwave Arena
Tue, 24 Feb 2026Influencer Brooklyn Barwick Fighting for NBA Americas title
Tue, 24 Feb 2026Integrated Sports to distribute ‘The MGM Slam Presented by Capital One PPV’ on Sunday, March 1 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
Tue, 24 Feb 2026125 climbers reach Mt. Apo in Sta. Cruz
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 24 Feb 2026Opening Round Bouts Set for Team USA at 77th International Strandja Boxing Tournament
Mon, 23 Feb 2026Jean Henri Lhuillier Expresses Pride as Cebuana Lhuillier-Backed Blu Girls Secure Wild Card Entry to WBSC World Cup
By Marlon Bernardino, Mon, 23 Feb 20262026 USA Boxing Elite High Performance Set to Compete at Strandja 2026 Boxing Tournament in Sofia, Bulgaria
Sun, 22 Feb 2026SMEP, SAEP round 6 standoff in PTC WED NEMO 4th D’ Engineers Chess Cup
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 22 Feb 2026Late Valentine’s gift for Lover Boy
By Joaquin Henson, Sat, 21 Feb 2026“Prince” Albert Pagara Heads to Perth, Australia, for WBC Australasia Title Fight
By Carlos Costa, Sat, 21 Feb 2026BARRIOS vs GARCIA (FIGHT ANALYSIS)
By Ralph Rimpell, Sat, 21 Feb 2026FLOYD MAYWEATHER UNRETIRES
Sat, 21 Feb 2026