According to the 'Bronze Bomber,' negotiations stalled after a challenge from the current division leader, Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk.
“Yes, we were indeed discussing a fight with Dereck. Honestly, everything was going very well. We were moving in the right direction. I would say everything was 90% agreed upon. We were already preparing to get in the ring and have some fun. I was very excited. And then, bam, a challenge came from Usyk [and negotiations for the fight with Dereck were interrupted],” quotes Wilder Ready to Fight.