In the post-fight press conference following the June 27th bout between Deontay Wilder and Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, Wilder was asked several questions regarding his intentions to seek a fight with top heavyweights such as Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker. With a different regimen for his career set in place by Wilder’s new coaching staff, it appears there is a pursuit towards gradual improvement that will eventually see him face the top of the division again.
Given the fact Deontay Wilder (44-4-1, 43 KO’s) suffered two back-to-back losses in 2023 and 2024 to Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KO’s) and Zhilei Zhang (27-3-1, 22 KO’s) respectively, Wilder’s alteration in his coaching staff has also led to a different approach on how to approach his career.
Both fights had been a part of Riyadh Season-sponsored events which are known for producing bouts between fighters of equal and significant competitive standing, signifying Deontay Wilder was not fully prepared to face the top contenders in the heavyweight (200+ lbs) division ― especially after revealing there were mental issues plaguing him prior to his Riyadh Season fights.
Seeking to restore his reputation and status by taking a slower, more methodical approach going forward, Deontay Wilder indicated he would stave off from fighting the top contenders in the division for the time being.
“Like I said, right now we’re not worried about none of those guys,” Wilder responded to a question on whether he’d face British rival Anthony Joshua (28-4, 25 KO’s) or Parker.
“We have a regimen that we set as we return, as it’s a return. It’s not a contract at all, it’s a return and we’re going to stick with that no matter what names are being put out.
“We’ve already got the calls for those guys, soon as this fight was over with. But we’re sticking and playing with what we have―and that’s what we’re going to do until we feel like we’re ready.“
Wilder further hinted at high earnings being a temptation when linked with other top fighters, a known benefit for fighters when competing in Riyadh Season fights, but reiterated he and his team would be focusing on improvement rather than quick and high paydays.
“You know, when people set fights, a lot of money is on the line but, you know, it ain’t all about the money. Sometimes, it’s not all about the money,” Wilder said.
“We got to make sure things are right because we’re in the hurt business, and any doctor will tell you the head is not meant to be hit. The body’s not meant to be hit either, so we have to take our timeand when we’re ready we going to everyone.”
While Wilder did not seem to have a specific opponent in mind for his next fight, the possibility remains of him continuing to fight unranked contenders until his development aligns with the goals set by his team. This further derails the chance for a fight between Wilder and Joshua ― a bout that has been anticipated since 2018 when the two heavyweights reigned on top as the only champions in the division.
