Deontay Wilder’s long-rumoured return to the ring was announced this week – he will face Robert Helenius on October 15.
Now back in the mix, Wilder must pay attention to the other big heavyweight clashes. Naturally, he was asked about the upcoming rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua.
The fight will take place this Saturday in Jeddah, and will be a defining moment for future fights in the division. Wilder will be hoping to pick up one, if not all, of the belts if he does indeed plan to stay active for another three to four years.
No stranger to rematches, the Alabama Heavyweight told the PBC podcast that both fighters will be well-prepared.
“The two guys have been given a lot time to strategise for the second time around.”
“When you fight a person you know them a little bit better the second time, and then a little bit more the third.”
He was then asked the question that has been on everybody’s mind – repeat or revenge? ‘The Bronze Bomber’ is convinced Usyk will cruise to victory for a second time.
“My heart says Usyk, easily.”
“He has the momentum now and he was able to do it the last time around – but this is boxing at the end of the day and you just never know how it’s gonna end.”
“I wish them all the best of luck and I hope they get out of the ring just like they came in – safe and sound.”
Back when they were both champions, a fight between Wilder and Joshua to unify the belts seemed to be inevitable. Fans’ frustration that the negotiations broke down still lingers, but most feel that, regardless of titles on the line, the fight should still be made in the future.