Joe Joyce “took on constructive criticism” to weigh a career heaviest 20st 1lb for Saturday’s rematch with Zhilei Zhang at Wembley’s OVO Arena, 25lbs heavier than their first fight.
The British heavyweight, 38, had said his weight played a part in April’s sixth-round stoppage loss to Zhang.
China’s Zhang, 40, is at 20st 7lb.
“I knew the weight was a little bit light last time,” said Joyce, who suffered a first career defeat by Zhang.
“Last time I started the camp already on weight. This time I’ve corrected the weight. I’ve been a little bit conscious of what I’ve been eating.”
Joyce will look to reclaim the WBO ‘interim’ title he lost and the mandatory challenger spot for unified world champion Oleksandr Usyk.
“I believe I will get victory in this fight. I reckon I can stop him if I hit him with the right shots,” he added.
‘I’m heavier but keeping the speed’
12 rounds with… Joe Joyce
Friday’s weigh-in at The Drum, Wembley was open to the public yet – apart from fighters’ teams, friends and families – only a small number of fans were in attendance.
Joyce mingled among the press as an observer for the undercard weigh-in. As the challenger, the Putney-born fighter took the scales first.
It was widely expected Joyce would come in heavier after he gave up 22lbs to Zhang when the two met at London’s Copper Box Arena five months ago, but few predicted it would be by this margin.
Joyce, who is 10lb heavier than his previous career-heaviest weight, said: “I’m in a lot better place physically and mentally. My focus and drive to win this time is a lot stronger.
“I took on constructive criticism and came in heavier, but I’m still keeping the speed.”
Underdog Zhang dominated the first fight, landing with ease before the referee halted the contest saving Joyce, and his swollen right eye, from any further damage.
The ‘Juggernaut’ looked on with anticipation as Zhang stepped on the scales, looking a little surprised his opponent has also gained weight from their first encounter.
“He put on weight intentionally, I didn’t do that,” Zhang said. “This is my natural weight. For all the years I’ve been pro, this is the best training camp I’ve ever had.”
Thursday’s news conference was light-hearted, but there was a more serious look to both fighters. After a long staredown, there was a slight nod of acknowledgement between the pair, but no handshake.
