Deontay Wilder hinted at continuing his boxing career during a recent public appearance, despite calls for his retirement after two consecutive losses.
The former WBC heavyweight champion showed up at The Lions Den Boxing Community Reunion in Atlanta with his right arm in a sling. Wilder's injury seemed to affect his arm rather than his hand, but the full extent remains unclear.
Wilder's recent performances have led to retirement suggestions from boxing experts like Lennox Lewis and Teddy Atlas. The 38-year-old American had stayed quiet about his future until this event.
His last victory came in late 2022 when he knocked out Robert Helenius in the first round. After that, Wilder took a 14-month break from the ring. He returned in December 2023 but lost a near shutout decision to Joseph Parker. Wilder looked tentative in that fight.
In his most recent bout in June 2024, Wilder promised to be more aggressive against Zhilei Zhang. Before the fight, he admitted that a loss could lead to retirement. Unfortunately for Wilder, Zhang knocked him out in five rounds.
At the Atlanta event, Wilder got a lifetime achievement award. He gave a speech that seemed to hint at his boxing future.
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"I'm grateful to give back. Everyone has greatness determined by service. We can't give up despite setbacks. The best is yet to come."
These words suggest Wilder might not be ready to hang up his gloves just yet. With lots of action coming up in the heavyweight division, fans may hear from him again soon.