Deontay Wilder returns to the ring this weekend looking to prove that he still has what it takes to mix it with the world’s top heavyweights.
Wilder was undefeated in 43 fights before he met his match in Tyson Fury, losing twice to the Brit. Despite a quick win over Robert Helenius to bounce back, the 38-year-old knockout artist from Tuscaloosa, Alabama then lost to Joseph Parker on points and to Zhilei Zhang by knockout, leading many to urge him to retire.
That thought never crossed his mind, however he has made a significant switch behind the scenes.
Speaking to the Montgomery Independent, the former WBC Champion confirmed that Malik Scott – former opponent turned trainer – is no longer part of his team.
“We’re brothers, and always will be brothers. We talk all the time and there’s nothing bad between us. Sometimes things change and this was one of those times.”
Scott – who became Wilder’s official head trainer in May 2021 as the heavyweight was preparing for his trilogy bout with Tyson Fury – said that the split was amicable and is ‘happy’ to hand the reigns back to Don House and Jay Deas.
“I wanted the best for Deontay. He did things to electrify the sport and something needs to be reinvigorated.
“He called me and let me know we were doing things different in the corner for this fight. We thanked each other for all we did for each other. He’s in good hands and I know he’s in good hands.”
How ‘The Bronze Bomber’ has handled this transition is in direct contrast to when he got rid of Olympic Gold Medalist turned coach, Mark Breland, who threw in the towel to save his man from punishment in the second Fury fight. He was unceremoniously dismissed for the act, despite clearly having Wilder’s best interests at heart, and subsequently accused, baselessly, of spiking the fighter’s water.
Fans will hope the drama stays inside the ropes this weekend when Wilder looks to make a statement against Tyrrell Herndon before having one last crack at the top level.
