The last Filip Hrgović not only has an opponent for his IBF heavyweight title final knockout but he now also has a date and place.
The undefeated player faces Zhilei Zhang of China in a match under Canelo Alvarez-Dmitry Bivol on May 7 at T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas.
It took a long time for the 33-year-old to sign and seal things off after various opponents in the IBF top 15 refused or said yes (Tony Yoka) despite contractual obligations during a match other.
“I have been waiting for this opportunity for more than a year,” says Hrgović. “Finally, I have an opponent ready to go up against me for the chance to win the IBF World Championship. Many boxers turned down this challenge to give Zhang credit for being brave enough to accept it.
“I know he is a good opponent. He won silver at the Olympics, which means he’s a good fighter, but he’s too slow, and I believe I have better qualities. My speed, fitness and strength will be too much for him. I will break him and I will beat him”.
Zhang, 38, is undefeated in 24 matches and going up against Hrgović is a significant step up from an opponent of the caliber he has faced. But Southpaw says he has to fight against ‘El Animal’.
“When no one else in the top 15 wanted to face Hrgović, I told myself I had to do it for me, and for the sport of boxing. This is the most important fight of my whole career. I all participate. Do not miss! “
