Deontay Wilder remains hopeful about a potential blockbuster fight with Anthony Joshua, expressing a “high 90s” confidence level that the bout will eventually happen.
Set to face Zhilei Zhang on June 1, Wilder sees this fight as a pivotal step toward reigniting global interest in a Joshua showdown. Wilder’s plans for a Joshua fight were paused after his unexpected defeat to Joseph Parker.
Both fighters had bouts scheduled last December, aiming for an April 2024 showdown. However, Joshua faced former UFC champion Francis Ngannou after Wilder’s loss to Parker.
Reflecting on his defeat to Parker, Wilder attributes part of his loss to a 14-month inactivity period. Despite this setback, he remains determined, stating, “June 1st is going to be that night.”
Wilder’s clash with Zhang is part of a unique Matchroom Promotions vs. Queensberry Promotions card in Saudi Arabia. The bout with Zhang is a surprise addition, with Wilder signing a one-fight deal with Matchroom.
Zhang, coming off a defeat by Parker, knows another loss could hinder his world title aspirations.
Discussing his mindset before the Parker fight, Wilder admitted to losing his “desire and hunger,” describing his performance as lacking usual intensity. “That monster wasn’t there anymore,” he said.
Despite this, Wilder remains confident, asserting, “Joseph Parker is definitely not better than Deontay Wilder; he was just better on the night.”
Credit: Yahoo Sport
