The comeback that has been analysed and prophesied for months lasted all of three minutes. ‘The Bronze Bomber’ couldn’t have re-announced himself any better.
At the end of the first round Wilder unleashed a right hand on the back foot that put Helenius’ lights out. The eyes of his opponent rolled back in his head as doctors entered the ring before the count was over.
After the fight, ‘The Bronze Bomber’ said what most were thinking:
“Deontay Wilder is back. The excitement in the heavyweight division is back”
See how those from within boxing reacted to Wilder’s return:
Oscar De La Hoya
Wow that was the most powerful fastest short right hand ever. Congratulations @BronzeBomber
— Oscar De La Hoya (@OscarDeLaHoya) October 16, 2022
Jake Paul
DEONTAY WILDER 1ST ROUND KO. pic.twitter.com/jWrddAN4tQ
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) October 16, 2022
Teddy Atlas
As I said they picked Helenius for a reason, and there it is. Bang. #WilderHelenius
— Teddy Atlas (@TeddyAtlasReal) October 16, 2022
Michael Benson
Robert Helenius' face after being KOd by Deontay Wilder… pic.twitter.com/opJvGmOeQf
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 16, 2022
Alan Dawson
OH MY GOD.
"Yo, yo, yo," Deontay Wilder says nonchalantly as Robert Helenius' eyes roll back into his head.
That's a haunting knockout. Shit!
America's best heavyweight is back in the win column.#WilderHelenius#boxing
— Al Dawson (@AlanDawsonSport) October 16, 2022
Hasim Rahman Jr
Welp, Wilders back.
— Hasim Rahman Jr. (@_HasimRahmanJr) October 16, 2022
Dan Rafael
Wilder MASSIVE KO1 Helenius. Lord have mercy. #boxing#WilderHelenius
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) October 16, 2022