Joe Joyce explains how his bizarre SKATEBOARD tactics are helping him ahead of crucial rematch with Zhilei Zhang
JOE JOYCE wants to emerge victorious this time when he takes on Zhilei Zhang in a rematch tonight.
And the heavyweight fighter took an unusual measure to secure victory by resorting to the use of an electric skateboard.
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Joyce lost to Zhang in April, which was the 38-year-old’s first professional defeat, but he has found a new way to clear his head after losing his unbeaten record.
Instead of going for a walk or listening to music, he instead rides his one-wheeled skateboard.
In conversation with the Daily Star About what helped him overcome the defeat, he said: “I was out in nature with my unicycle skateboard, that helped me.”
“I go to family and friends. I also look at the footage and see what I did wrong. It wasn’t that I was thinking, it was a distraction and something I could feel good about and enjoy.”
“I have hobbies outside of boxing, I swim, dive, cycle and the unicycle is my new thing. It helps me distract myself and enjoy life. That means it’s not boxing, boxing, boxing.”
The Putney Juggernaut not only underwent a mental change before the fight, but also a massive physical transformation.
He’s almost gained weight TWO STONES since his last fight with Zhang, hoping to tip the scales in his favor.
Joyce was 18st 4lb in the original fight earlier this year, but now weighs an impressive 20st 1lb in the replay at Wembley Arena.
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But it’s not just the Englishman who’s packed on the pounds: Zhang made it to 20 pounds ahead of the highly anticipated fight.
The Chinese southpaw will be hoping for a repeat of last time’s fight, when he showed complete dominance against Joyce and kept his right eye closed.
Despite the nagging memories of April’s disappointment, Joyce is confident his new weight can help him tonight.
He said: “I knew the weight was a bit light last time.”
“This time I have corrected all the mistakes and am more conscious of what I eat and how I train.
“I am in much better shape, physically, mentally and also with my concentration and my will to win this time.
“I believe that I will achieve victory in this fight. I can stop him if I hit him with the right shots.”
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