December 24, (THEWILL) – Former WBC heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder, was handed a shock defeat by Joseph Parker on Saturday night, ending hopes of a mega-fight with Anthony Joshua in 2024. Wilder and Joshua, a two-time former heavyweight champion, had reportedly agreed terms on a lucrative two-fight deal to finally face each other in 2024. However, the agreement was contingent on both men winning their bouts on the “Day of Reckoning” event in Saudi Arabia.
With Joshua set to take on his opponent Otto Wallin on the same night, Wilder came up short against New Zealander Parker, losing a unanimous decision after 12 rounds. It was a upset result as the American entered the fight as a strong favourite, boasting an intimidating 43-2-1 record with 42 knockouts. In contrast, Parker had three losses on his resume, albeit with a respectable 33-3 tally.
The defeat prompted speculation Wilder could now opt for retirement, with the 37-year-old admitting in his post-fight interview he was unsure if he still had the same hunger. “I’ll be back, and if not, then it’s been a pleasure. I don’t know [if I still have the same fire I used to],” he stated. It completes a miserable end to 2023 for the “Bronze Bomber” after losing twice to Tyson Fury in their epic trilogy.
Meanwhile, victory for Parker continues his career revival following an improved recent campaign. The win over Wilder is arguably the 30-year-old’s most impressive to date. Joshua will also be left ruing what could have been after Wilder’s defeat. The all-British showdown between the two has eluded fans for years and, with this result, has once again failed to materialise.
With Wilder’s shock defeat, it remains to be seen if the heavyweight division’s two biggest names outside Fury will get another chance to finally meet in the ring. After losing out on huge paydays in the past, their ship may have now sailed for good.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
