Matchroom Boxing will feature two undefeated Chinese boxers
Two undefeated Chinese fighters will be in action on a Matchroom Boxing Bonanza card. The will welcome light-heavy weight Meng Fanlong (13-0, 8 KOs) and Zhilei Zhang (20-0, 16 KOs).
This is major news for both fighters. Being added to such a prestigious event will help them appeal to whole new audience.
30 year old Fanlong will be facing Frank Buglioni for the vacant IBF Inter-Continental light-heavyweight title. This is a big step up fight for the #12 rated fighter. A victory could see a significant jump in the rankings.
Buglioni was once scouted as a top contender in the division until a first round knockout loss to Callum Johnson in March saw his stock drop. He now has a chance to regain his status in the rankings with an upset victory.
Zhang, 35 years old, has perhaps the biggest challenge of the night. He will square off against former championship contender Alexander Ustinov.
The WBO #6 rated heavyweight has a nine fight knock out streak. A victory would definitely see his stock rise. Standing 6’6”, he fits right in with today’s heavyweights.
Ustinov recently lost to Manual Charr for the WBA “regular” heavyweight title. So, he will need a victory to remain in the title picture. Being 41 years old, the window of opportunity is closing fast.
INTERESTING FACTS
Both Challengers Buglioni & Ustinov will be making their first appearance in Monte Carlo.
Ustinov is a former WBA/IBO international title holder and Buglioni is a former BBBofC Light heavyweight title holder.
Its also worth noting both Chinese fighters are southpaws. This adds to the degree of difficulty for both challengers.
These fights are on the undercard of the Mike Wilson vs Denis Lebedev contest that will also feature Kal Yafai.
It’s clear Matchroom Boxing is ending the year on a sensational note. The event will take place at the Casino de Monte Carlo Salle Medecin, Monte Carlo on November 24th.
By: Garrisson Bland
