Deontay Wilder's career faces an uphill battle after recent losses, while Martin Bakole, the WBA's top-ranked heavyweight, boldly claims he'd knock out Wilder if they fought.
Wilder, from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, made a name for himself by consistently knocking out opponents with his devastating right hand. He's likely secured a place in the history books with his numerous knockouts.
The former champ's career took a turn during his trilogy with Tyson Fury. Their first fight ended in a controversial draw, with Fury rising from the canvas twice. Fury then stopped Wilder in brutal fashion in their second and third bouts.
After the Fury fights, Wilder bounced back with a quick first-round knockout of Robert Helenius. This win kept interest in Wilder high. But things went downhill from there. He lost to Joseph Parker on points and got knocked out by Zhilei Zhang.
Now 38, many in the sport want Wilder to hang up his gloves. Critics say he's become "gun-shy" in recent contests. But Turki Alalshikh of Riyadh Season might give Wilder another shot. He's considering matching Wilder with Derek Chisora or Joe Joyce if Wilder proves he wants to keep fighting.
Enter Martin Bakole, the WBA's number one ranked heavyweight. He's riding high after a TKO win over Jared Anderson in five rounds. Anderson was supposed to be the next big thing in American heavyweight boxing.
Bakole didn't mince words when talking about Wilder in a recent interview with BOXXER:
"Deontay Wilder – I'll smash him. Small legs, small body, I'll knock him out."
Bakole has the backing of Riyadh Season's Turki Alalshikh. But fans are also excited about a potential matchup between Bakole and Zhilei Zhang.
As Wilder weighs his options, Bakole's star continues to rise. The heavyweight division remains as unpredictable and exciting as ever.
