Deontay Wilder is set to return to the ring in 2025 as the fighter aims to recover his form at heavyweight and re-enter title contention.
With back-to-back losses in his last two outings, Wilder will be eager to get back in the win column aged 39.
Former champion Wilder is understood to make his return in April, seemingly taking a step down in competition for his next bout.
Wilder’s devestating knockout over Robert Helenius was his last win, and he will be aiming to replicate that when he faces reported opponent Curtis Harper.
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Curtis Harper aiming to upset Deontay Wilder’s comeback
Harper is expected to be Wilder’s dance partner when the former champion returns to the ring and is aiming to add more misery to the ‘Bronze Bomber’s’ form.
Wilder’s opponent is known for a viral moment in a fight where he left the ring on the opening bell, but is eager to defeat the former champion.
Speaking to Boxing Scene, the 36-year-old feels that he is being overlooked in terms of his chances against Wilder. “You can never underestimate somebody by their last losses, just who they are when they walk into that ring, so they’re underestimating me.”
Harper’s last loss came in December of 2023, losing via 8th round TKO. Since that bout, Harper has gone on to win his previous four, with three by knockout.
Speaking on his mindset going into the bout, Harper said, “I’m gonna go in there as if I’m Curtis Harper and he’s supposed to put me down.”
“I’m gonna stop everything in my will to put him down. It’s gonna be a fight. Fist for fist, blow for blow and he is lucky if he makes it out alive.”
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Deontay Wilder’s champion-status not a deterrent for Curtis Harper
Harper has said that Wilder is “Just another man,” and is not concerned about facing a former champion.
“Being a world champion doesn’t prove how good you are. I’m a good fighter, and I’m only gonna be a better fighter… Before it’s all over, I’m gonna be the best fighter there is.”
In terms of Wilder’s championship experience, he has competed in 13 world title bouts, with a record of 10-2-1.
It is unclear as to what the rest of 2025 may look like for Wilder following a potential Harper bout. However, Turki Alalshikh has expressed interest in creating a fight between the ‘Bronze Bomber’ and Anthony Joshua, following Tyson Fury’s retirement.