Deontay Wilder aims to start 2026 off with a bang.
The former WBC World Heavyweight Champion flirted with retirement following back-to-back losses against Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang, however returned in June with a low-key win over Tyrell Herndon.
Though there is a debate as to what he has left in the tank, particularly after two bruising losses to Tyson Fury, there is little doubt that Wilder brings a certain excitement to boxing’s top division.
Speaking to popular streamer N3on, Wilder confirmed that his return will now be in January rather than the tail end of this year, saying he has signed the contract and that the fight will begin a championship run.
“I do have something coming up. We’re looking in January. I’ve signed the contract already. I can’t [give] no details at this point, but it’s definitely live. It’s gonna happen. I got a big year next year, I’m looking forward to it … all I can say is two-time. Let’s go.”
Whilst the American’s ‘two-time’ charge will come down the line, considering Oleksandr Usyk currently holds all four titles and has mandatories ahead of the American should he want to keep them, Wilder could target a top contender to get himself in position. There is also Kubrat Pulev who currently holds the WBA Regular belt, however the Bulgarian has been linked with other names for his first defence.
The heavy hitter’s manager, Shelly Finkel, has made it clear that after this next bout – which has been reported as booked for ‘overseas’ – the team will target a long-awaited clash with fellow former champion, Anthony Joshua.
