Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are two mammoths of the Heavyweight division. Fans and experts alike have been speculating a bout between the two boxers for some time now. Even Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, had previously hinted towards the match materializing. However, that has not happened yet because of complications with finalizing the deal with the Saudis. In a recent interview, Wilder’s trainer, Malik Scott, expressed his frustration surrounding the situation.
Both fighters share similar records and have faced major upsets in their recent fights. Wilder’s dominance in the Heavyweight division came to an end after his epic trilogy with Tyson Fury. Meanwhile, Joshua tasted the canvas twice in a row against Oleksandr Usyk. Not to mention, he was never the same after a defeat against Andy Ruiz. So, a fight between Wilder and Joshua could have been the opportunity for both fighters to redeem themselves. However, at this point, the fight seems to be on the verge of being canceled. What went wrong? Wilder’s trainer sheds light on the matter.
Malik Scott reveals negotiation insights
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While appearing in an interview, Malik Scott, shared insight into the negotiations. While speaking to Boxing Social, Scott claimed Wilder has been looking forward to a bout against AJ for four to five years. Saudi Arabia has hinted at being interested in hosting the fight to draw attention to their country. However, Scott feels the Saudis and Hearn are not backing what they promised. He said, “It seemed like, I don’t want to say, the Saudis, Eddie definitely not our side but it seem like a lot of promises has been made that on it’s a possibility that they are not being kept.”
Later, during the interview, Scott explained as Deontay’s trainer, he cares about his activity level. He also claims that the entire situation is frustrating because Deontay vs. Wilder is the biggest fight in boxing. “It’s frustrating also because this is probably, in my opinion, it’s the biggest fight in boxing.” Despite the fight not materializing, Wilder is training rigorously to stay sharp, Scott told Boxing Social. With that statement from Wilder’s trainer, it’s needless to say, the fight may not fall apart. So, what is Wilder planning in the meantime?
Anthony Joshua’s old opponent calls out Deontay Wilder
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While the talks for Deontay vs. Joshua have gone cold, the boxing world is wondering what is next for Wilder. The ‘Bronze Bomber’ has been out of the ring for over a year at this point. What’s more, his last fight did not last for long, as he knocked out Robert Helenius in the first round. So, Wilder might want to get back in the ring. But against whom?
Jermaine Franklin Jr. fought against AJ back in April and Dillian Whyte before him. Even though Franklin lost both of those fights, he cemented himself as a solid contender. In a recent interview with Seconds Out, Franklin admitted he is considering fighting Wilder because he is in the way. Furthermore, if the AJ fight falls apart, Franklin would be a good opponent for Wilder. But only time will tell if Wilder accepts the challenge.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Given the statement from Wilder’s trainer, things don’t look great for a fight between Joshua and Deontay Wilder. However, a different opportunity has presented itself to Wilder. So, it’s on Wilder’s shoulders if he gets back in the ring. Do you think the Wilder vs. Joshua fight would happen? If it doesn’t, should Wilder accept the challenge from Franklin?
Watch This Story: Who Is the Next Potential Opponent for Deontay Wilder?