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Deontay Wilder’s Future: No Retirement, Yet No Riyadh Appearance Planned

The former heavyweight champion of the world, Deontay Wilder, has been the subject of rumours about his boxing career and his retirement. Shelly Finkel, Wilder's co-manager, provided World Boxing News with unique information on the knockout artist's future.

Joe Parker unleashing a powerful series of punches on Deontay Wilder during their last fight, symbolizing a pivotal moment in Wilder's boxing journey.
Parker's Dominant Onslaught: A Turning Point in Wilder's Career

Finkel affirms that Wilder is far from hanging up his gloves, despite reports that he is retiring after losing to Joseph Parker. Finkel declared, "Deontay has no plans to retire and will fight again." This declaration puts an end to any rumours that Wilder will soon retire from competitive swimming.


Finkel disclosed that Wilder does not presently have plans to attend the next high-profile fights in Riyadh, which include the heavyweight title fight on February 17 and the Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou contest on March 8. He did not, however, completely rule out the prospect of a future shift.


Lennox Lewis, the renowned boxer, commented on Wilder's predicament, pointing out that he had not been active prior to the Parker bout. Lewis voiced his worries in an interview with Ring Magazine, saying, "I didn't think he was going to step in the ring again." Lewis emphasised the detrimental effects of Wilder's inaction and implied that it was a major factor in Parker's defeat over him.


Concerns have been raised about Wilder's minimal appearance in the ring during the previous two years, which included a one-round fight against Robert Helenius. Lewis, who was supported by many in the boxing industry, noted that Wilder was not sufficiently prepared for the Parker bout by his lack of action.

Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder standing face-to-face, encapsulating the anticipation of a potential future fight between these heavyweight giants.
Future Titans Clash? Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder Eyeing a Potential Showdown

Despite the loss, the much anticipated fight between Wilder and Joshua may still happen. Hope is maintained by Turki Alalshikh's desire to hold this war in Saudi Arabia. But a victory in the next three months is essential for Wilder to get back into the top division picture, especially if Joshua defeats Ngannou.


The result and fallout from the Fury vs. Usyk bout may potentially have a significant impact on the heavyweight division's future. With an active rematch clause, a possible two-fight saga between them might change the odds and present possibilities for Wilder.

As Editor of World Boxing News since 2010, Phil Jay is a seasoned boxing news writer who brings years of knowledge to his analysis of the boxing world and the direction of


How do you see Deontay Wilder's boxing career developing? Can he get back to where he was in the heavyweight class? Please share your thoughts and forecasts.


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