Tyson Fury’s Concerns Over Deontay Wilder
Tyson Fury, a former champion in the heavyweight boxing division and a notable rival of Deontay Wilder, has voiced concerns over Wilder’s recent performance and future in the sport. After Wilder’s comeback victory against Tyrrell Herndon on June 27 in Kansas, Fury commented that Wilder is far from his prime and is, unfortunately, just a remnant of his former self.
Impact of the Trilogy Fights
Fury pointed out that the significant wear and tear from their intense trilogy of fights between December 2018 and October 2021 has greatly impacted Wilder, who is now nearing 40. Although Wilder secured a victory in that fight, he encountered considerable difficulty in finishing off Herndon, who entered the bout with a modest record of 24-5 and proved to be a delayed challenge for Wilder. The fight ended in the seventh round, but it took Wilder time to establish control, something he might have accomplished comfortably in his younger years.
Fury’s Warnings
As Wilder looks ahead to possibly reclaiming a world title—potentially facing renowned opponents such as Anthony Joshua or Oleksandr Usyk in the future—Fury expressed his apprehensions.
“I urged someone to halt this man’s pursuit of the sport! He is a mere shadow of the fighter he once was,”
Fury told reporters in Istanbul, acknowledging the difficulties Wilder faces at his age. He emphasized the grueling nature of their encounters and how they may have prematurely concluded Wilder’s career.
Future Prospects for Wilder
Despite these warnings, Wilder is slated for another fight in September, backed by a partnership with BLK Prime and Global Combat Collective, with hopes for a further bout in December before potentially escalating to tougher contenders by 2026. However, given his recent form, Fury’s skepticism about Wilder’s ability to compete at the highest level remains poignant.
