Deontay Wilder fires clear Anthony Joshua demand and makes Tyson Fury vow
12.05.2024 - 15:31
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Deontay Wilder has expressed his eagerness for a fight against Anthony Joshua in London, describing it as "a long time coming". The American heavyweight contender is looking to rebuild his career after a disappointing performance against Joseph Parker in December.
Originally scheduled to face Joshua in Saudi Arabia in March, Wilder's lacklustre showing against Parker cost him the opportunity, reports the Express. However, the 38 year old is hopeful of making a comeback when he takes on Zhilei Zhang at the Matchroom vs Queensberry event in Riyadh on June 1.
Despite years of speculation, a fight between Joshua and Wilder has never come to fruition, largely due to promotional politics. Yet, Wilder is optimistic that if he can defeat Zhang next month, the much-anticipated fight will finally happen.
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Speaking to Sportsbook Review about the prospect of facing Joshua in London, Wilder said: "Yeah, it turns me on." He added: "I have no problem coming to London. It would be amazing for me.
"I actually have major fans in the UK, and I think they're going to show up and represent me, even though I'm fighting their countryman. All these fights are beautiful to talk about, but I've got to handle business come June 1. But it has been a long time coming for that fight with AJ.
"It's easy for them to talk about it right now because I already have a task I need to accomplish, but we'll see what type of talk they have when I accomplish my task, then there will be no more hiding, no will be able to hide, no one will be able to be outspoken without any weight