Parker vs Zhang: what happened when the pair faced off ahead of the Last Crescendo fight card

Two fighters on the Last Crescendo fight card, Zhilei Zhang and Joseph Parker, have previously met. On the upcoming Last Crescendo fight card, which will take place on 22nd February, the pair will face different opponents. Parker will take on Dubois, while Zhang will face Kabayel. Here’s what happened when the two first met.

The Zhang v Parker bout delivered a thrilling contest that showcased the determination and skill of two heavyweight contenders. Held over 12 intense rounds, the fight culminated in a well-earned victory for Joseph Parker, who demonstrated superior stamina, tactical awareness, and resilience to overcome the formidable Zhilei Zhang.

From the opening bell, Zhang established his intent by leveraging his size and power. The Chinese southpaw applied pressure early, landing heavy left hands that forced Parker onto the back foot. Zhang’s strategy revolved around controlling the centre of the ring and dictating the pace, a tactic that worked effectively in the early rounds. Parker, however, showed his experience by weathering the storm, using head movement and a high guard to minimise damage.

As the fight progressed, Parker began to assert himself. The New Zealander displayed exceptional conditioning, moving fluidly and countering Zhang’s aggression with crisp combinations. In the middle rounds, Parker’s right hand became a key weapon, repeatedly finding its target as Zhang’s pace slowed. A pivotal moment came in round eight when Parker landed a series of clean shots that visibly staggered Zhang, forcing the referee to closely monitor the action. While Zhang recovered and continued to press forward, Parker’s consistent output and ability to adapt ultimately turned the tide in his favour.

The final rounds saw both fighters dig deep, but Parker’s superior fitness and tactical adjustments proved decisive. He controlled the distance with his jab and landed key power shots, particularly in exchanges that favoured his faster hand speed. By the end of the 12th round, it was clear that Parker’s consistency had earned him the edge, and the judges’ unanimous decision reflected his dominance in the later stages.

This victory not only reaffirmed Parker’s status as an elite heavyweight but also set the stage for his upcoming clash with Daniel Dubois on the Riyadh Season fight card. Dubois, known for his explosive power, presents a different challenge for Parker. The New Zealander will need to employ similar tactics—relying on movement, endurance, and counterpunching—to neutralise Dubois’s aggressive style. With both fighters vying for a significant career milestone, their bout promises fireworks.

Meanwhile, Zhang’s performance, despite the loss, underscored his standing as a dangerous contender. The Chinese heavyweight showcased his power and resilience, attributes that will be crucial when he faces Agit Kabayel in Riyadh. Kabayel, a technically sound and undefeated fighter, poses a unique challenge with his defensive skills and mobility. Zhang will need to refine his approach, particularly in maintaining energy over the distance, to secure a victory against the German standout.

The Riyadh Season fight card is shaping up to be a marquee event for boxing fans. With Parker and Zhang both aiming to bounce back from their previous bouts and prove their worth on the global stage, their respective matchups against Dubois and Kabayel carry significant implications for the heavyweight division. Parker’s proven ability to adapt under pressure and Zhang’s relentless power make them compelling figures to watch as they prepare for their next challenges.

As the heavyweight landscape continues to evolve, these fights could play a pivotal role in determining future title contenders. For Parker, a win over Dubois would solidify his comeback and position him for another shot at the top. For Zhang, overcoming Kabayel would revitalise his momentum and affirm his status as a threat to any heavyweight. With such high stakes, the Riyadh Season card is set to deliver unmissable action and drama.