Deontay Wilder might want to think about hanging up his gloves, according to former super-middleweight world champion Carl Froch.
Froch, who now works as a boxing commentator and podcast host, believes Wilder's recent performances show signs of decline. The ex-WBC Heavyweight Champion has lost four of his last five fights, including two knockouts against Tyson Fury and a stoppage loss to Zhilei Zhang in June 2024.
Speaking on his podcast, Froch On Fighting, the retired boxer shared his concerns about Wilder's future in the sport.
I feel that Deontay Wilder should seriously consider retiring. But his trainer Malik Scott has released a statement and said he will be back, that he has a bright future in boxing – I really question that, especially at the high level I definitely question that.
Froch points out that Wilder's punch resistance isn't what it used to be, and his legendary power seems to be fading. He worries that if Wilder continues fighting, he could end up getting seriously hurt.
The Nottingham-born fighter knows a thing or two about retiring on top. Froch's last fight was a conclusive knockout victory over George Groves at Wembley Stadium in 2014, in front of 80,000 fans. That rematch came six months after a controversial mid-round stoppage in their first encounter, where Froch had been knocked down in the opening round.
Wilder, known as "The Bronze Bomber," is set to return to the ring on June 30 against Tyrrell Herndon, according to ESPN. If he wins, there's talk of a long-awaited clash with Anthony Joshua.
But Froch thinks Wilder should put his health first. He's worried that money-motivated decisions, possibly influenced by lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, could lead Wilder to take unnecessary risks.
While big fights like Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou grab headlines, Froch urges Wilder to consider his future carefully. The former champion's advice comes from a place of concern, hoping Wilder will prioritize his well-being over potential paydays.
