Hu carries the confidence of someone who has already faced championship-level competition and learned from defeat. His close decision loss to current champion Yuya Wakamatsu three years ago didn’t break him. It provided the blueprint for his resurgence. Three consecutive victories since then, including his knockout of former divisional ruler Geje Eustaquio, prove he belongs among the division’s best.
The Chinese striker’s approach to this upcoming matchup reveals a veteran who has identified specific weaknesses to exploit. His assessment of Zakirov’s power deficit represents tactical analysis rather than simple trash talk.
“His undefeated record stems from not having faced me yet. He poses no threat to me — only an opportunity for me to prove my strength,” Hu Yong said.
That conviction creates dangerous dynamics. Athletes who genuinely believe they hold decisive advantages often fight with calculated aggression that can overwhelm less experienced opponents. Hu’s knockout power has ended fights before, and he clearly believes Zakirov hasn’t faced anyone with his finishing ability.
Zakirov counters with the supreme confidence that comes from never experiencing professional defeat. At 22 with a 15-0 record, the Uzbek phenom has systematically dismantled every challenge across two weight divisions. His recent performance against Bokang Masunyane showcased the skills that validate his confidence.
The undefeated fighter sees Hu as predictable and outdated. It’s a dangerous assessment from someone who has studied his opponent’s entire body of work.
“I watched all his fights, he has nothing to surprise me with. His punches [are] not bad, good takedown defense, but I am better both in striking and grappling,” Zakirov said.
The tactical matchup creates fascinating possibilities. Hu’s knockout power and improved takedown defense contrast with Zakirov’s wrestling credentials and unproven chin against elite competition. The veteran believes his foe lacks the power to hurt him, while the young contender trusts his technical superiority will overwhelm his opponent’s one-dimensional approach.
On top of that, the implications add weight to an already compelling rivalry. Both athletes understand this represents their clearest path to title contention. Zakirov aims to establish himself as the division’s next king, while Hu seeks redemption against the man who handed him his last defeat — and he’s nothing but confident in his chances.
“You haven’t faced a true top-five flyweight contender yet. I’ll make you experience a different kind of fight,” Hu said.
