Deontay Wilder, the former heavyweight world champion, doubts Alexander Usyk's status as the greatest boxer of all time.
“I don’t consider him the greatest boxer in history. People who say that are probably his fans. That’s their opinion,” said the 39-year-old Wilder, as reported by the Ready To Fight portal. He added that among Ukrainians, there are likely many who support this opinion, but outside the country, very few people share that view, as most do not possess deep knowledge of boxing.
The American boxer highlighted his punching power and physical condition as key factors for his success in the upcoming fight. Wilder's words were quoted by Bloody Elbow.
“I think my right hand is the secret to my success in the fight with Usyk. I don’t want to reveal all my cards in this interview, as opponents might hear and prepare. I will only say that I have speed, height, and athleticism — these are the advantages that will help me,” he noted.
It is worth reminding that the fight between Wilder and Usyk, in which three titles (IBF, WBA, WBC) will be at stake, is scheduled for spring 2026. Usyk has repeatedly emphasized that Wilder is currently his most desired opponent.
In his last fight last summer, Usyk defeated Daniel Dubois, knocking him out in the fifth round. As of now, the Ukrainian has no losses in the professional ring.
In 2015, Deontay Wilder won against Frenchman Johann Duhaupas by late stoppage. The punches from this opponent remain in Wilder's memory: “Maybe that will change someday, but right now, when I think of the hardest punch, I immediately think of Duhaupas. Every jab made my head bounce. I thought at the time: ‘Wow! How does he hit!’ He had something special in his gloves,” the boxer admitted.
Wilder also shared that at one point he even considered giving up: “I told myself: ‘That’s it! I can’t go on!’ He was the only opponent who made me think that way. The punches were very painful, and that’s what I remember. I will always respect him for that. Hi, brother! I still remember you. His punches were so hard that I can’t forget them.”
