Earlier this week, former WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder appeared on Kevin Hart’s digital show, Cold As Balls. During his time with Hart, Wilder revealed that he was contemplating retirement after losing a second consecutive fight against current WBC Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury.
“It’s mixed feelings with that question,” Wilder said when asked about retirement.
“Because ultimately, Kevin, I have accomplished my goals in this sport. I told my daughter when she was [a year old] that I’d be a champion and I’ll be able to support her beyond her belief.”
If Wilder were to retire, it would leave a huge hole in American heavyweight boxing. Prior to fighting Fury, Wilder became the first American-born heavyweight champion in more than a decade. In his absence, a new American heavyweight prospect has emerged out of Ohio. Representing the midwestern city of Toledo, Jared Anderson has captured the attention of the boxing world in just 10 fights. With a 100% knockout rate, Anderson believes he can challenge for a world title in the future.
“Next year, Jared will fight big names,” boxing promoter Bob Arum told Sky Sports.
“He is a young man, just 22, and I believe him to be the future of the heavyweight division.”
Tonight, Anderson proved Arum to be correct. Entering the ring with an all-white outfit inspired by the late Pimp C, the heavyweight champion showcased a frightening combination of speed and power. In the first round, the Toledo native landed 20 more power punches than his opponent, Oleksandr Teslenko. In the second round, he followed up with a two punch power combination that put Teslenko down. The Ukranian fighter attempted to get up, but stumbled as the referee shouted instructions at him. Ultimately, the official was forced to stop the fight in the second round.
