Deontay Wilder has sent a message to Andy Ruiz Jr ahead of a potential all American clash between the pair, claiming Ruiz will need “extra help” should they meet in the ring.
Although Wilder was complimentary towards many of ‘The Destroyer’s attributes as a fighter, he told ES News that they would not be enough against him.
“Andy’s a good fighter. I like his speed, I like his willingness and I like his bravery. It’s not going to be enough for me, though.”
“Everything he’s got, he’s going to have to put some more on top of it. Because I am that man, that’s why they all fear me.”
“With me, you’re going to need to have some extra help.”
The WBC has ordered Wilder and Ruiz to face off in a final eliminator, with the winner becoming mandatory challenger for the belt currently held by Tyson Fury.
Both men are currently part of Al Haymon’s PBC stable making the fight easy to make to make in theory and Wilder revealed the last remaining hurdle:
“We’re just looking for location right now, I think the biggest thing for me and Andy is just location. It’s coming. I want to fight Andy, I hope he wants to fight me.”
Wilder’s trainer Malik Scott has called for a blockbuster bout with Anthony Joshua in numerous interviews and admits he would prefer the fight over a date with Ruiz.
However, ‘AJ’ looks set to take on Jermaine Franklin before a summer showdown with old foe Dillian Whyte, meaning Wilder may have to settle for a PBC derby with Ruiz.
‘The Bronze Bomber’ announced his return to the blue ribbon division in explosive fashion in October, dispatching of comeback opponent Robert Helenius in just one round at the Barclays Centre.