Former British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titleholder, Zak Chelli, aims to establish himself in the light-heavyweight category, beginning with his English title bout scheduled for tonight.
The 27-year-old boxer steps back into competition after a 10-month break for his match against Adam Hepple at York Hall.
With a professional record of 15-3-1, Chelli is considered the strong favourite for this main event as he seeks to get back to winning and position himself for significant bouts in the 175 lbs division.
Chelli commented: “I`m feeling excellent and I`m eager to compete. My previous fight was in August of last year for the British and Commonwealth titles, and regrettably, that performance wasn`t my best.”
“However, I`ve rejoined my initial training team and feel stronger than I ever have,” he continued. “I`ve regained my focus on my objectives. I`m very pleased to be headlining an event again and competing for a title. I owe thanks to Alfie Warren and Warren Boxing Management for arranging this opportunity.”
Chelli`s third professional loss occurred last summer when Callum Simpson defeated him by points at Oakwell Stadium.
Explaining the previous fight: “My father wasn`t my trainer during that period. He was in Tunisia caring for his mother. The training camp wasn`t effective; I wasn`t performing at my usual level. I would definitely like a rematch in the future, regardless of the weight class, as I`m comfortable competing at both super-middleweight and light-heavyweight.”
“But my current focus is on what`s ahead,” he added. “I have the English title fight approaching, which is a fantastic opportunity.”
Chelli, having previously held the English title at super-middleweight, is facing Adam Hepple, a former Northern Area champion.
The 32-year-old Hepple indicated on social media his intention to “disrupt expectations” as the boxer from Seaham, holding a 5-2 record, prepares for his most significant professional challenge yet.
Chelli stated he is not underestimating his opponent but is determined to make a significant impact in the light-heavyweight division.
On moving up in weight: “I feel at ease at super-middleweight and possess considerable strength. I`ve consistently sparred with light-heavyweights, and even larger opponents like cruiserweights and heavyweights. Therefore, when an opportunity arose for a fight in this division, I decided to seize it.”
“Warren Boxing Management secured this fight for me,” he explained. “This presents a chance to establish dominance in the light-heavyweight division. The current British champion is Lewis Edmondson, and I am confident I can defeat him without difficulty.”
“There are top fighters in this weight class whom I`ve sparred with, such as Callum Smith. I recall sparring with him multiple times and performing quite well. I would say that if a significant opportunity arises in this division, I will definitely pursue it.”
