When Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang step into the ring in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, they will be well aware that their championship hopes hang in the balance. Both fighters are coming off losses in their previous bouts, and this highly anticipated main event clash presents a do or die situation for both men in the heavyweight division.

Interestingly, both Wilder and Zhang's recent defeats came at the hands of Joseph Parker, who emerged as the underdog in both fights. Parker's wins have propelled him above both Wilder and Zhang in the rankings, adding to the stakes of this match in a thriving heavyweight landscape following Oleksandr Usyk's historic win over Tyson Fury.

Wilder, a former WBC champion from 2015 to 2020, is determined to earn a shot at the championship once again. Known as one of the hardest pound-for-pound punchers in boxing history, Wilder has 41 knockouts in 42 career victories. However, his power was unable to overcome Fury in their trilogy, resulting in two stoppage losses and a split draw. In his most recent fight against Parker, Wilder's lack of aggression and reduced punch output raised concerns about his form and motivation.

Speaking at the final press conference, Wilder expressed confidence in his preparations and partnership with promoter Eddie Hearn. The boxer emphasized a determined mindset to win and knock out his opponent, highlighting the energy and unity in his team ahead of the fight.

On the other hand, Zhang is also eager for redemption after suffering his first defeat against Filip Hrgovic in August 2022. He bounced back by knocking out Joe Joyce, claiming the WBO interim title. Zhang's aggressive style and ability to finish fights early have contributed to 21 stoppages in his 26 career victories. However, his tendency to fade in later rounds was exposed in the Parker fight, presenting an intriguing contrast with Wilder's recent hesitation to unleash his power.

In addition to the main event, there are several other notable fights on the card. Filip Hrgovic will face Daniel Dubois for the vacant IBF interim championship, with the winner potentially being elevated to world champion status if the IBF strips Usyk of his title for not defending against Hrgovic. Meanwhile, WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitrii Bivol will defend his title against undefeated Malik Zinad after Artur Beterbiev withdrew from their planned undisputed championship match due to injury.

As anticipation builds, fans and experts eagerly await the outcome of the Wilder vs. Zhang clash. With championship hopes at stake, both fighters will undoubtedly give it their all to emerge victorious and reignite their paths to boxing glory.