Deontay Wilder is not the type of boxer to turn down a challenge, especially when called out by his name. Following the news that Francis Ngannou called out the “Bronze Bomber” on social media, Wilder has now posted his reaction and response to Francis Ngannou. As with most communication these days, the message came on Instagram, for the whole world to see; we suspect that was the whole point. The details still need to be ironed out, but it looks like this fight between two of the most ferocious knockout artists is going to happen; the question is, when?
Wilder is looking for a high-profile fight to make a return to the ring in
Whatever happens, Deontay Wilder will go down as one of the best knockout artists in the squared circle. His ferocious knockout power has led the American fighter to an impressive record in the ring. He has recorded 42 knockouts in his 47 professional fights and has stated on his Instagram account that he would welcome a potential fight against Francis Ngannou.
“Respect, but I’m ten toes down, no fear, no fold, no fake… always ready, always solid. Step in the ring and you’ll see what that means @francisngannou.” – Deontay Wilder
Ngannou revealed that he would be returning to the ring following a lengthy absence. Francis Ngannou made the statement calling out Deontay Wilder in a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show. He labelled Wilder his next opponent, which set the boxing world on fire as the pair are two of the most high-profile fighters in the game.
This could be a fight for the ages and one we will not soon forget
At first, it looked like a fight between Francis Ngannou and Deontay Wilder might not happen. Following statements by Shelly Finkel, Deontay Wilder’s manager. Finkel stated that Wilder was looking for a more out-and-out boxer for his next fight, calling out Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. But that stance towards a fight with Ngannou has now shifted, thanks to Deontay’s very public acceptance of Ngannou’s invitation.
Wilder is looking to make a splash with his return to the ring after nearly a year away from the sport. He last fought against fellow American Tyrrell Herndon and won, following four defeats in his previous fights after holding the WBC heavyweight title between 2015 and 2020. Ngannou is coming off the back of a fight against Brazil’s Renan Ferreira in the MMA ring and has stated that he has unfinished business with boxing.
“We haven’t engaged personally, but it’s going to be soon. We are setting some things up.” – Francis Ngannou
Whether or not all this back and forth on social media actually produces a fight in reality remains to be seen. Ngannou started it all when he called out Wilder, and Wilder responded with the appropriate gusto that we have come to expect from the American. The fight will need to happen soon, as neither fighters are not on the younger side; Wilder will be turning 40 soon.
Who would win in a fight between Wilder and Ngannou
That is a question that boxing fans want answered. Both fighters are universally renowned for their amazing punching strength. So if the fight does take place, expect fireworks as we can imagine both fighters wanting to end proceedings with a knockout. Boxing has become a landing destination for several MMA fighters in recent years, looking to test their striking skills in the squared circle. Not to mention the seriously good financial returns that boxing offers. Ngannou has not faced many boxers, but if this fight does happen, we will be among the first fans to tune in.
