Is it finally happening?
Former WBC Heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder may have just reignited one of boxing’s most long-awaited matchups.
“The Bronze Bomber” picked up a split decision win over longtime contender Derek Chisora last night (Sat., April 4, 2026) inside The O2 Arena in London, England — a result that also marked the end of Chisora’s career (watch highlights).
It was just the second time in Wilder’s career that he went the distance.
Following the fight, Wilder made it clear he believes
he still has one more title run left in him — but didn’t name a specific opponent during his in-ring interview.
That changed quickly.
As Wilder made his way backstage, he crossed paths with fellow heavyweight superstar Anthony Joshua and delivered a simple message:
“Let’s do it. He’s scared as f—k. Let’s do it.”
And just like that, a fight fans have been begging for over the better part of a decade is back on the table.
Wilder vs. Joshua has famously fallen apart multiple times over the years. Negotiations in 2019 reportedly included massive offers and multi-fight deals that never materialized, while a near-agreement in 2024 collapsed after Wilder suffered a shocking loss to Joseph Parker (watch highlights).
Now, the timing might finally be right.
Wilder did reveal he may have suffered another hand injury in the Chisora fight, but remains confident he’ll compete again before the end of 2026 — and Joshua is firmly on his radar.
As for Joshua, he has recently returned to training following a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and trainers. While a showdown with Wilder feels overdue, he’s also been linked to a potential clash with Tyson Fury, which could land later this year or in early 2027.
Still, no matter what comes next…
Wilder vs. Joshua feels inevitable again.
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