There has been uncertainty in the boxing world over the past few months about the future of Deontay Wilder, with many expecting him to retire following a brutal stoppage loss to Zhilei Zhang in June.
Many observers felt Wilder looked a shadow of himself both against Zhang and his wide decision loss to Joseph Parker on the Day of Reckoning card last December.
There is a widespread view that the Alabama favourite’s 16-year professional career – particularly his gruelling trilogy with Tyson Fury – has caught up with him.
However, despite urges for ‘The Bronze Bomber’ to hang up the gloves, his coach Malik Scott has stated his charge intends to carry on.
Speaking to Genting Casinos, Scott expressed his belief that Wilder “still has a bright future” and touted potential future match-ups against Francis Ngannou and long-time nemesis Anthony Joshua.
“Zhang is a very big, dangerous southpaw. Deontay got caught with a shot that put him in an unbalanced position, and Zhang did his job.
“Deontay has the heart of a lion and is willing to go out on his shield in the ring.
“He’ll be back. Deontay will fight again.
“He still has a bright future in boxing, especially at the high level.
“As for the biggest fight, it could be against Francis Ngannou or Anthony Joshua. They are still mega fights.
“The AJ [fight] Maybe doesn’t have the same juice it once did, but it would still sell out any arena or stadium. Just seeing those two in the ring would be a joy for the fans.
“If Ngannou keeps doing what he’s doing and still wants that fight, it could be huge as well. I’m proud of Deontay. He’s still in a position to make these big fights happen.”
Despite Scott’s comments and the fight once being perhaps the most demanded fight in the heavyweight division, it is difficult to imagine there is currently much appetite for Wilder and Joshua to finally do battle.
‘AJ’ will attempt to become a three-time heavyweight world champion when he takes on Daniel Dubois next week, and has stated his intention to pursue undisputed status should he prevail.
