Deontay Wilder's mother has publicly urged the former world heavyweight champion to retire following his fifth-round knockout defeat to Zhilei Zhang. The 38-year-old American, known as 'the Bronze Bomber', has now lost four of his last five bouts, including consecutive defeats to Tyson Fury and a loss to Joseph Parker.
Speaking to USA Today Sports, Wilder's mother revealed she texted her son after the fight, saying: 'Son, we're having a party for you. You gave us the best boxing in USA when boxing was dead. You've gotten older. You've ran your course in your journey. It's now time to celebrate.' She added that she has taped his knockouts and plans to look back on them with happiness.
Wilder rose to prominence by winning the WBC heavyweight title in 2015, ending an eight-year drought for American champions. He defended the belt ten times over five years before losing it to Tyson Fury in 2020. His manager, Shelly Finkel, declined to comment on his future, stating: 'He is fine, he is sleeping now, he was very emotional last night.'
Fellow boxer Anthony Joshua said Wilder's decision should be personal: 'If you want to do it, do it... it's just where your heart's at.' Former champion Lennox Lewis also advised retirement, noting Wilder had 'more than carved out a life' and should leave the sport with his health intact.
