WBO Interim Champ Zhang Accuses Rival Hrgovic of Dirty Tactics and 'Gifted' Victory!
WBO Interim Heavyweight Champion Zhilei Zhang has launched scathing remarks against former opponent Filip Hrgovic, alleging that the Croatian boxer secured a win through referee assistance and has a history of employing illegal tactics. Zhang's knockout victories against Joe Joyce propelled him into a mandatory challenger position, eyeing a shot at world honors and establishing himself as a formidable threat within the rankings. However, the IBF's mandate puts Zhang's aspirations on hold, with Hrgovic, the sole fighter to defeat Zhang professionally, positioned to face the winner of Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk or Anthony Joshua for the vacant title. In an interview with Fight Hype, Zhang criticized his defeat against Hrgovic, deeming it a gift facilitated by the referee. He pointed to Hrgovic's subsequent fights, labeling them as lower-level bouts taken to safeguard his mandatory position, alleging Hrgovic resorted to illegal tactics by targeting the back of his opponents' heads. Zhang reiterated his accusations against Hrgovic, branding him a habitual offender for hitting opponents on the back of their heads in every fight, emphasizing instances against Demsey McKean and Mark De Mori. The contentious history between Zhang and Hrgovic appears to have intensified, evident in Zhang's bold claims regarding his rival's fighting style. Seeking to solidify his quest for a world title shot within the next twelve-to-eighteen months, Zhang has expressed readiness to fight on the Fury-Usyk undercard, underscoring his determination and preparation for an impending championship challenge. #ZhileiZhang #FilipHrgovic #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingControversy #BoxingNews #WorldTitle #FighterAccusations #BoxingChampion #BoxingUndercard
