Joe Joyce has dismissed any discuss of retirement as he stays decided to “problem on the high degree” after his rematch loss to Zhilei Zhang.
The British contender was unable to regain the WBO interim heavyweight belt as he suffered a third-round knockout loss to Zhang at The AO Area in Wembley on Saturday evening.
Defeat additionally meant that Joyce couldn’t reclaim a WBO necessary title shot at unified champion Oleksandr Usyk, which he had earned earlier than his first stoppage loss to Zhang in April.
However SJAM Administration will focus on the 38-year-old’s comeback within the subsequent few days and are assured Joyce will once more show himself as one of many world’s greatest after wins over Joseph Parker, Daniel Dubois and Carlos Takam.
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The British contender’s solely defeats have come in opposition to Zhang
“Joe is an elite warrior who continually challenges himself in opposition to these on the high degree of heavyweight boxing – he has among the finest CVs of any energetic heavyweight,” mentioned SJAM Administration.
“He misplaced to an elite world-level fighter in Zhilei Zhang however will proceed to problem on the high degree.
“We are going to meet as a staff this week along with [promoters] Frank and George Warren and plan the best way ahead.”
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Zhang is focusing on Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder
Zhang has known as for a combat in opposition to Tyson Fury after his rematch victory, whereas his co-manager Terry Lane has revealed American Deontay Wilder could possibly be one other potential opponent.
However Saudi Arabia, the UK and America are extra doubtless places for Zhang’s subsequent combat, regardless of his quickly rising recognition in China.
Homecoming combat in Zhang’s plans?
Lane advised Sky Sports activities: “There’s simply so many political and financial points and hurdles to climb over to do this [stage a Zhang fight in China].
“We wish to do it, we’re nonetheless exploring it. Truly the Warrens and [promotional team] High Rank are serving to us as properly.
“However we will make it occur, I simply do not know when.
“We’ll get throughout the end line sooner or later.”