Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker has had some exceptional performances over the course of his career.
From Parker knocking out Martin Bakole to his dismantling of Deontay Wilder, the New Zealander has been a top player in the division for many years.
His win over Bakole would improve his record to 36-3, as Parker has only lost to Anthony Joshua, Dillian Whyte, and Joe Joyce.
Following Parker’s loss to Joyce, the heavyweight went through somewhat of a career resurgence. This even included him getting revenge on one of his former amateur opponents who got the better of him.
Joseph Parker lost to Zhilei Zhang as an amateur
Before becoming a professional boxer in 2012, Parker had a successful amateur career before making the switch.
However, although Parker had a winning record, he would taste defeat to someone who has also become a notable name in the heavyweight division. This would happen in 2011, when he met Zhilei Zhang.
The pair met in Baku, Azerbaijan, as a 19-year-old Parker was still two years away from becoming a professional. However, Zhang, who was nine years his senior, was able to get the better of the New Zealander.
Winning via points, Zhang would be declared the winner of the super heavyweight bout. The following year, the Chinese man would compete at the 2012 Olympic Games, where Zhang would lose to Anthony Joshua.
As for Parker, he would turn professional in July 2012, defeating Dean Garmonsway via TKO.
However, Parker and Zhang would meet once again as much-experienced professionals.
Joseph Parker had a career-best performance versus Zhilei Zhang
13 years after their amateur meeting, Parker and Zhang would find themselves meeting for a second time at the top go the heavyweight division.
The two would fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in March 2024. The WBO Interim World Heavyweight title would be on the line in the fight, which Parker took home.
However, it was not smooth sailing for Parker. Zhang is a monstrous puncher and showed that against Parker.
In rounds three and eight, Parker would find himself on the canvas. However, he was able to recover well on both occasions, out-boxing Zhang over the course of 12 rounds.
The bout would end in a majority decision win for Parker, who claimed the belt that he still holds to this day.