2025-12-12 12:39:48
Deontay Wilder has teased talks for a heavyweight title fight with Oleksandr Usyk are “very promising” as both teams continue negotiations for a potential 2026 showdown.
The Bronze Bomber, 40, is being lined up as The Cat’s voluntary WBC challenger, with the Usyk, 38, targeting another unification bid after vacating the WBO belt earlier this year.
Speaking to IBA Boxing, Wilder said: “Just the excitement that it has drawn for boxing fans has been amazing, and I don’t doubt that it’s going to happen … at this moment in time of negotiation, it looks very promising.
“My heart is pumping right now just to get back in there… this is something that I’ve been waiting on to get myself back together mentally.”
Wilder returned to winning ways in June with a knockout victory over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, 38, a result that kept him in contention despite losing four of his previous six bouts.
The former heavyweight champion insisted his recent struggles were psychological rather than physical, and says the looming Usyk fight has helped him refocus.
He said: “And now that I’m here and I get this opportunity, it’s a beautiful thing. Hopefully negotiation goes just as smooth as it’s going now, everything is agreed upon fairly.”
Usyk, who remains the unified WBC, WBA and IBF heavyweight champion, halted Daniel Dubois, 28, in July to retain his titles for the second time.
He has since expressed clear interest in facing Wilder, saying: “I want to fight Deontay Wilder … this is a world champion guy, this is a very famous guy, this is a strong guy.”
With Usyk having twice beaten Anthony Joshua, 36, Tyson Fury, 37 and Dubois, a clash with the division’s most potent puncher holds major commercial appeal.
Wilder, owner of 42 knockouts in 43 wins, says he is motivated not only by the belts but by the chance to silence those who believe his best days are over.
He said: “I pray things are fair. Usyk is a man of God … I hope he takes that into consideration. I’m sorry, but the world will see, ‘and the new!’”
Reflecting on recent years, he added: “My life has been crazy … and to still have my mindset right, still happy… I’m still here, and to get this opportunity, it’s a blessing.”
Usyk continues to chase a third undisputed reign and has insisted the loss of his WBO belt is “only temporary”.
With the IBF title picture expected to shift in 2025 and Wilder eager for one last run at the top, both camps now appear aligned.
Wilder teased: “Fans get ready, it’s going to be something.”
Visit Bang Premier (main website)
