Deontay Wilder, the former WBC world heavyweight champion, is getting ready to step back into the ring. He's set to fight on June 27, 2024, after taking a year off following a tough loss to Zhilei 'Big Bang' Zhang.
Wilder's comeback fight will be against Tyrrell Anthony Herndon at the Charles Koch Arena in Wichita. It's a non-title heavyweight bout, but it's crucial for Wilder to get back to winning ways. The 39-year-old fighter, known as "The Bronze Bomber," has had a rough patch lately, losing four of his last five fights.
His last win came in 2022 when he stopped Robert Helenius in the opening round in New York City. But things went downhill from there. Just over a year later, Joseph Parker handed Wilder a comprehensive points defeat. Then, in June 2023, Zhang knocked Wilder out brutally in the fifth round in Riyadh.
That loss to Zhang was particularly hard for Wilder. It left many wondering about his future in the sport, including former undisputed heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis.
Lewis, who's considered one of the greatest heavyweights ever, shared his thoughts on Wilder's situation. In a Twitter post, Lewis wrote:
"Deontay Wilder told us before the [Zhang] fight that he would retire if he didn't win. I think that's a wise decision. He's more than carved out a life in which he can take care of his daughter. So before he suffers any more damage, it's best to leave the game with ur faculties intact because there's a LOT more life to live after boxing."
Lewis's concerns aren't just about Wilder's recent losses. He's worried about Wilder's health and future well-being. He points out that Wilder has made enough money to care for his daughter and should consider leaving the sport while he's still healthy.
Despite these concerns, Wilder has decided to continue his career. His upcoming fight against Herndon will be a big test. It'll show if the former champ still has what it takes to compete at the highest level of heavyweight boxing.
For Wilder, this comeback is about more than just winning a fight. It's about proving he's still a force in the heavyweight division. As he steps into the ring on June 27, all eyes will be on the Bronze Bomber, watching to see if he can recapture the form that made him one of the most feared punchers in boxing.
