Deontay Wilder turns 38-years-old this month, and when he does so he will have had more birthdays in the last three years than fights.
The American hard-hitter was WBC World Heavyweight Champion for half a decade, undefeated and feared by many in the division due to his close-to-perfect knockout record.
Two losses to Tyson Fury following a debatable draw put Wilder’s career into limbo.
When the trilogy was over with via the final Fury knockout, ‘The Bronze Bomber’ took one year out before returning to the ring in October of last year to stop Robert Helenius in one round.
That victory was enough to convince fans that Wilder was still a major player in the division, but he has not fought since – negotiations with both Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz Jr ending poorly.
He must look elsewhere now, and Cuban Frank Sanchez has thrown his hat in the ring via Boxing Scene.
“It will be a year before Tyson Fury and Usyk have two fights, and this is too long to wait for a championship fight … Jared Anderson will not fight me … This leaves Deontay Wilder. I understand that Andy Ruiz is asking for ridiculous money, so forget him. I will be reasonable with money because I know I will win against Wilder.”
“I respect Wilder. He is a very strong fighter, but I think I will come out victorious. I hope he considers a fight with me. I think boxing fans would be interested in this fight. Let’s see what happens in the future, but all I can do is stay prepared with Eddy and be ready for anything.”
Sanchez is undefeated in 23 contest with 16 knockout wins to his name. Despite being 31, his six-year campaign has progressed relatively slowly and he still waits for a big name on his record.
Wins over Efe Ajagba, Joey Dawejko and Christian Hammer should see the Eddy Reynoso trained heavyweight now taking the next step in his career, but will Wilder’s price tag allow it?
The offer is there – and the pair are both under the PBC banner for an easy negotiation process.