Deontay Wilder returns to the ring for his first fight in over a year. In the other corner stands Joesph Parker – also a former world champion who knows he must avoid the right hand of the American knockout artist.
Wilder briefly considered retirement following two bruising losses to Tyson Fury, but later returned to blow out Robert Helenius in one round.
This challenge against New Zealand’s Parker is a chance for fans to see how much the 38-year-old from Alabama has left in the tank.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Hall of Fame fighter Carl Froch said he was a fan of the American’s style and believed it would be too much for Parker.
“I am a Deontay Wilder fan. He’s exciting. I’m a boxing fan, so whenever you watch somebody get into that ring who wants to knock somebody out, especially a heavyweight, it’s hard not to be a Deontay Wilder fan, isn’t it? The trilogy with Tyson Fury was epic.
But against Parker I just think he’s got that power that’s gonna trouble Parker. Every time he steps up to the top level he gets beat. I expect Deontay Wilder to land at some point, on his chin, and iron him out.”
A statement win for Wilder sets up a fight against longterm rival Anthony Joshua, who also competes on the card against Swedish southpaw Otto Wallin.
Parker and Wallin aim to ruin those plans, and both have the capabilities to do so.