[2][3] Zhang made his professional mixed martial arts debut in 2009, competing primarily for regional promotions in China, compiling a record of 7–7–1 before earning a tryout on the Ultimate Fighter in 2013.
In the fall of 2013, it was announced that Zhang had been selected as one of the welterweight participants for Team Sky Dragons on the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter: China.
[4] Zhang won his first fight on the show, defeating Zhu Qingxiang by submission in the first round (strikes).
Zhang then went on to defeat Albert Cheng by submission (kimura) in the second round to advance to the finals.
[6] Zhang faced Brendan O'Reilly in a lightweight bout on August 23, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 48.
He won the fight via knockout in the round one and this win earned the $50,000 Performance of the Night bonuses.