Anthony Joshua has faced criticism from heavyweight contender Zhilei Zhang for allegedly choosing less challenging opponents in his recent fights. Despite rebuilding his career with victories over Jermaine Franklin, Robert Helenius, Otto Wallin, and Francis Ngannou in the past 15 months following defeats by Oleksandr Usyk, Joshua has been accused of avoiding tougher competition.

Zhang, who stopped Deontay Wilder in his last fight, expressed doubt that Joshua would ever agree to fight him professionally. The two boxers previously met at the 2012 London Olympics, where Joshua won their quarter-final bout on points. Zhang asserted his belief that Joshua would continue to avoid facing him, citing discussions with his management that indicated Joshua’s reluctance.

In an interview on The MMA Hour, Zhang remarked, “Mark my words, he’s not fighting me. He’s not going to fight me, ever.” He referenced their Olympic encounter as the initial point of contention and suggested that despite years passing since then, Joshua would not agree to step into the ring with him.