Deontay Wilder (center)
29-year-old Alabama boxer, Deontay "The Bronze
Bomber" Wilder, has claimed the WBC heavyweight championship in an
exciting, brutal bout against then reigning 36-year-old
Haitian-Canadian champ, Bermane Stiverne. The scorecards clocked the
fight at 120-107, 119-108 and 118-109 in a unanimous decision. It
marks the first time an American has held the title since 2007
(former champion Shannon "The Cannon" Briggs).
Bermane Stiverne (left) vs. Deontay Wilder (right)
Stiverne, a tough and worthy champion, who was the
first Haitian heavyweight champion of the world in a remarkable
feat, was the favorite going into the fight. However, for months I
have been stating on this site and Twitter that Wilder is a force to
be reckoned with and is America's top prospect and he proved me
right. Wilder is a massive power puncher, with a unusual punching
style that is difficult for most to withstand. It has produced a
perfect record of 33-0. Credit to Stiverne to have withstood those
shots for 12 whole rounds, as most of Wilder's opponents crumble
within 4.
Deontay Wilder (left) vs. Bermane Stiverne (right)
I am of the belief, the hope of retaining the title
kept Stiverne going, because at many points during the fight, it was
painfully evident he was hurt and in a significant amount of pain.
At times he looked as though he was doing his best not to pass out.
I hope there is no long term neurological damage. However, he has
nothing to be ashamed of. He put up a good fight and took Wilder the
distance, something no one else can state in his professional career
thus far.
Wilder seeks to fight the top man in heavyweight boxing, the
Ukraine's Wladmir Klitschko. It is being stated Wilder also wants to
fight British champion, Tyson Fury, who is also keen on a potential
bout. Wilder's contract with boxing promoter, Golden Boy, has now
expired and he is currently in negotiations.
My tweet on Twitter proclaiming Deontay Wilder "the current
great American heavyweight" two weeks before he even won the WBC
heavyweight title
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