Wilder On His Return: “I Had To Come Back Because I Inspire So Many”

Deontay Wilder Breaks Down Why He’s Returning to Fight Again

Unless you’ve been sleeping under a rock, you are aware Deontay Wilder (42-2-1, 41 KOs) is returning to the ring. On August 17, the former WBC heavyweight champ announced on social media that he will face Robert Helenius (31-3, 20 KOs) on October 15 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. It wasn’t much of a secret that former WBC heavyweight champ Deontay “Bomb Squad” Wilder planned to fight again. In July 2022, 3Kings Boxing reported there were rumblings of his return.

After making ten title defenses, a memorable trilogy with current WBC champ Tyson Fury, and being financially set for life, some may ask why Wilder wants to fight again. During an exclusive interview on the Premier Boxing Champions podcast, the Alabama native went in-depth about his decision to step back into the ring.

IT’S MORE THAN ABOUT HIMSELF

“I knew I had to go back to feel the emotions of the people that were around me; To see grown men cry in front of their children and to show them that someone symbolizes and represents them and stands for greatness.

[…] I just knew right then and there that I had to come back because I motivate so many, I inspire so many around the world. I got a little bit more to give until I say that I’m really done. So, here I am.”

Before his decision, the 35-year-old said he didn’t keep up with the sport. An entrepreneur and philanthropist, he has various businesses and interests beyond the four corners of the boxing ring. But since the announcement of his upcoming fight, he’s been all-in, pushing his body to the limit.

Wilder claims to be committed to fighting for three or four more years before hanging up the gloves. That should be a great delight to boxing fans. Yes, he’s coming off of two stoppage defeats to Fury. But Wilder still has a right hand that is arguably the greatest equalizer in the sport. Because of that, he’s still a huge draw. His return on October 15 is a welcomed infusion of excitement.

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By: Michael Wilson Jr.

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