Watch: Deontay Wilder reveals what he is most proud of
Deontay Wilder has many reasons to look back at his boxing career with pride. Despite suffering losses against Tyson Fury, there’s no denying that Wilder will go down as one of the scariest punchers of the era.
The Alabaman heavyweight star has consistently entertained his fans over the years. In 45 professional fights, Wilder has scored 41 KOs in 42 wins. Amidst so many glorious achievements in and out of the ring, Wilder’s family remains his dearest attachment.
In a recent chat with Premier Boxing Champions, he was asked to describe what he is most proud of. Deontay Wilder replied:
“What I am proud of the most is being able to just set a foundation for my family. You know anyone who knows me, knows, I am a family man. I love my family, I love my children. I created them.”
Wilder took up boxing at the age of 21, which is considered quite late in the sport. It's said that the ex-WBC champion wanted to become a basketball player. Wilder's daughter Naieya was unfortunately diagnosed with spina bifida. That’s when Wilder entered the boxing sphere to earn money.
In 2016, Wilder revealed that he had promised to become a world champion for his daughter. After attaining the goal, he dedicated the belt to Naieya, receiving attention and well wishes from the entire combat sports world in the process.
I promised my daughter I would be a champ. This belt belongs to her so I'll fight whoever and wherever to make sure it stays with her
Deontay Wilder is still a threat to the division
Wilder has looked unbeatable for several years. Although fighters like Luis Ortiz and Bermane Stiverne offered tough fights, none could resist Wilder’s KO-power. Tyson Fury was also floored multiple times by Wilder in their trilogy of fights.
That said, Fury knocked out Wilder twice before defending the WBC gold against Dillian Whyte. Following the brutal losses, Wilder hinted at hanging up his gloves. The former champion received a life-size statue of himself made in his hometown of Tuscaloosa.
Wilder has also amassed a multi-million dollar fortune in addition to cementing his name in the history of heavyweight champions. However, Wilder recently discussed his chances of returning to action. Thus, the heavyweight division may see its scariest knockout artist come back soon.