Zhilei Zhang, often referred to by his nickname “Big Bang,” is a Chinese heavyweight boxer who has become one of the most prominent athletes in his division. Born on May 2, 1983, in Qianzhangying village, Shicaoji Township, Shenqiu County, Zhoukou, Henan Province, China.
ZHILEI ZHANG PROFILE
| Name | Zhilei Zhang |
| Real Name | Zhilei Zhang |
| Date Of Birth | 2 May 1983 |
| Age | 41 Years |
| Nationality | Chinese |
| Occupation | Boxer |
| Religion | N/A |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $5 Million |
| Copied From | Contents101.com |
ZHILEI ZHANG BIOGRAPHY
Zhang grew up in a rural setting where he stood out as the tallest member of his family. By the age of 15, he had reached a height of 1.95 meters (6’5″), far taller than both of his parents, his father standing at 1.76 meters and his mother at just over 1.6 meters. His early life was shaped by his physical stature, and his father, Zhang Tan, enrolled him in canoe sprinting lessons to help him shed weight. However, it was boxing where Zhang’s talents truly flourished.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Zhang later attended Shenqiu’s Huaidian Hui Town No.3 Middle School.
CAREER
At the age of 19, Zhang began his boxing journey, and by 2001, he was already competing in national competitions. He won third place in the unlimited weight class at the National Games of China and, as a result, became a sparring partner for the national boxing team in 2002.
Amateur Career
Zhang’s amateur career was decorated with numerous accolades. He participated in the 2005 World Amateur Boxing Championships, where he earned a win against Vugar Alekperov before being defeated by the eventual champion, Odlanier Solis. Zhang continued to improve, earning a bronze medal at the 2007 World Amateur Boxing Championships in Chicago, securing his qualification for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
The 2008 Olympics became a significant milestone in Zhang’s career as he captured the silver medal in the heavyweight division. His medal was historic, as he became the first Asian boxer to ever win a medal in the unlimited weight class. Despite the coaches’ disappointment in missing out on a gold medal, Zhang’s silver medal was an extraordinary achievement for Chinese boxing. In the 2012 London Olympics, Zhang faced a tough challenge and was defeated by Anthony Joshua in the quarterfinals.
International Career
At the age of 37, Zhang signed with Matchroom Sport USA in 2020, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career. He quickly began to make an impact in the heavyweight division, showing off his impressive knockout power. Zhang secured the WBO interim heavyweight title in 2023, solidifying his position among the top heavyweight boxers globally.
His career took another significant step forward in 2025 when he faced Agit Kabayel in a high-profile bout. Despite experiencing health challenges, including a serious medical issue in 2021 following his fight with Jerry Forrest, Zhang’s dedication to boxing remained unwavering. His health scare led him to reassess his training and diet, making necessary adjustments to ensure his longevity in the sport.
CONTROVERSIES
Although Zhang’s amateur career was filled with accomplishments, his transition to professional boxing was not without difficulty. Between 2009 and 2019, his career stalled due to several factors. These included his national boxing commitments, issues with mismanagement, and visa problems, which prevented him from competing at the top level in the international boxing arena. As a result, he spent a decade on the sidelines, unable to make his mark on the professional scene.
ZHILEI ZHANG SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLE
https://www.instagram.com/zhileibigbangzhang/?hl=en
PERSONAL LIFE
Outside the ring, Zhang is known for his hobbies and interests. He is an avid tea drinker, especially fond of Longjing tea, although his excessive consumption of it in the past was linked to health issues. Additionally, Zhang has cultivated a variety of hobbies, including constructing cameras, barbecue grills, and car washing equipment. He also enjoys skeet shooting in his spare time.
Zhang’s personal life includes his wife, Jiang Huanhuan, a former starting pitcher for the Henan provincial softball team. The couple married in December 2006 and have a son, born in 2010. Despite the challenges of being separated by international travel restrictions, Zhang remains committed to his family.
ZHILEI ZHANG NET WORTH
As of February 2025, Zhilei Zhang’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His contract with Queensberry Promotions, signed in 2023, has also contributed to his financial success