Deontay Wilder became the first American heavyweight champion since 2006, and has many American fight fans dreaming of an end to Wladimir Klitschko’s reign of dominance atop the division. That will have to wait for now though, as Klitschko doesn’t seem to be atop Wilder’s priority list.
Instead, Wilder looks like he’s set his sights on British heavyweight Tyson Fury for his first title defense. “Me and Tyson would be one helluva fight. We’re both big punchers and entertainers. I would love to do it in the UK, where I’ve always enjoyed my visits. No problem for me,” Wilder said.
Wilder cruised to victory over Bermane Stiverne Saturday night, but for the first time in his career was unable to knock his opponent out. The victory pushed Wilder’s record to 33-0, but there was clear room for improvement.
In Round 7 Wilder had Stiverne on wobbly legs after hitting him with a straight right hand, but had to pull back from the ensuing onslaught because of concerns about punching himself out.
From that point on Wilder fought from a cautious distance, using his reach to potshot the plodding Stiverne.
Wilder never launched a serious attack after stunning Stiverne in the seventh, and at times appeared winded. Wilder denied any stamina issues after the fight though, and believed his performance vs. Stiverne answered any questions about his ability to be a great champion.
"I think I answered a lot of questions tonight," Wilder said. "We knew we could go 12 rounds. We knew we could take a punch. All the hard work was done in camp. I had fun. I'm just excited."
Klitschko’s next move is unclear, but he is believed to be in talks with another American heavyweight, Bryant “By By” Jennings for a fight in 2015.
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