Daniel Dubois vs Zhilei Zhang Talks Move Forward

Daniel Dubois is being steered toward a return against Zhilei Zhang, with his team confirming active discussions and an April date in London now the working target.

The message is coming directly from Dubois’ camp. Sam Jones confirmed that talks are live and said the fight as a straightforward next step rather than a rebuild or a sideways move. Following Dubois’ return to Don Charles, the priority has been activity and opposition that answers real questions.

“There’s been talks to try and make Zhilei Zhang against Daniel Dubois, which Frank Warren has highlighted, so we’re actively trying to make that happen,” Jones told BoxingScene. “We are actively now, with Frank Warren, trying to get Daniel back into the ring pretty soon.”

Jones stressed that readiness is not the issue. “He’s ready, he’s back in the gym, and he’s raring to go,” he said. “He’s ready to fight now.”

Why Zhang has stayed in the picture

Zhang has been pushing for this fight for years. The southpaw has called for Dubois publicly and privately, seeing the matchup as one that fits his style and timing. That interest has not faded.

“Zhang absolutely wants the Dubois fight,” co-manager Terry Lane told Sky Sports earlier this month. “It’s been on his wishlist for some time now.” He added, “We’ve made Queensberry aware, and let’s hope we can get it done.”

Lane also addressed the state of both fighters without gloss. “Both are still top guys despite coming off of losses,” he said. “It makes sense to make.”

The appeal is obvious. Both remain punchers. Both have taken damage. Both need a fight that settles where they stand.

London as the natural stage

An April date in London is under discussion, a location that lines up with each fighter’s strongest performances. Dubois stopped Anthony Joshua inside five rounds at Wembley in his penultimate fight. Zhang halted Joe Joyce twice in 2023, first at the Copper Box, then again at Wembley Arena.

Stylistically, it is a clean clash. Zhang is a big southpaw who applies steady pressure and relies on timing and weight behind shots. Dubois is most effective when he can plant his feet and work through combinations to head and body.

Nothing has been signed. Talks remain ongoing. What is clear is intent. Dubois’ camp wants him active. Zhang has been waiting.