Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has pinpointed a psychological battle, not physical decline, as the root cause of his recent disappointing performances in the ring.
The Real Battle Was Outside the Ring
In a candid interview, Wilder did not blame his age, reflexes, or training for losses to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang. Instead, he pointed to a profound mental struggle stemming from personal betrayal. "It definitely was psychological for sure," Wilder told Clubhouse Boxing. "My performances were poor due to my mental state rather than my physical."
The 38-year-old, known for his devastating knockout power, described a period where external turmoil crippled his focus. "Outside of the ring has been the major battle of my life," he admitted, referencing a "rough patch" of betrayal by those close to him. "If you never felt it, it's worse than a heartbreak," Wilder said, explaining how the experience shattered his trust and comfort.
How Trauma Impacted His Fight Camp
This mental weight followed him directly into his training camps. "I was still thinking about my problems outside the ring while I'm in camp," he revealed. Wilder confessed he spent most of his preparation trying to convince himself he was ready, while privately dreading the fights. "Everything that I put together in camp went out the window," he stated, describing his ring appearances as being in a state of survival rather than executing a game plan.
The low point, unfamiliar for a man who prided himself on mental fortitude, forced him to seek professional help. "I decided to get the help of two therapists and a sports psychologist," Wilder said. A key lesson was learning to "put things on the shelf"—compartmentalising issues beyond his control to allow himself to heal and focus.
Looking Ahead: Joshua, Usyk, and a Renewed Mindset
Now, with renewed perspective from therapy and time, Wilder insists the "Bronze Bomber" is ready to return to his fearsome best. He remains adamant that a blockbuster showdown with British rival Anthony Joshua will happen. "It's still one of the biggest fights in the world," Wilder asserted. "It's going to happen... I've been talking to some people over in Africa... about bringing that fight to Africa."
He also confirmed talks are ongoing for a potential fight with unified champion Oleksandr Usyk. More importantly, Wilder believes the internal war is over. "I've been through hell and back. And I ain't going back there no more," he declared. With his mental engine refired, Wilder is determined to prove his legendary power can once again decide the fate of the heavyweight division.
