Wilder's Playing the Long Game: Two Tune-Ups Before the AJ Payday We've All Been Waiting For

By Lewis Barnett 25 June, 2025 6 mins read 285 Views

So here we are again.

Deontay Wilder's back this Saturday in Kansas against some guy named Tyrrell Herndon that nobody's heard of, and honestly? Good for him. After getting schooled by Joseph Parker in December and then face-planted by Zhilei Zhang back in June, the Bronze Bomber needs to remember what winning feels like. My buddy texted me yesterday: "Is Wilder washed?" Fair question, but I think there's more to this story.

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The Comeback Blueprint (Or: How to Rebuild Your Confidence)

Nelson Lopez Jr – who's worked with Oscar de la Hoya and PBC, so he knows his stuff – is promoting this low-key return. Smart move, actually. Sometimes you gotta take a step back to move forward, and Wilder's camp has locked in a three-fight deal that's basically designed to get him back to relevance.

Lopez told SunSport something that caught my attention: "Yeah listen, we got a tentative deal and we're just going one by one. We have teh next one set up, this one set up, nothing solid for the third one – you know how boxing is, there's no path of how you succeed."

That's refreshingly honest for boxing promotion speak.

AJ's Still the Prize

Here's what everyone really wants to know – is the Anthony Joshua fight still happening? Lopez basically dangled it like a carrot: "And then, you know maybe Eddie will sit at the table and see what we can do something with AJ."

Listen. We've been hearing about Wilder vs Joshua since 2018. I've lost count of how many times this fight has been "close" only to fall apart. Joshua's coming off that brutal knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September (still can't believe that happened) and had elbow surgery recently. Both guys are 35+ and running out of time.

But here's the thing – the money's still there.

Vegas and London? Why Not a Trilogy While We're At It

Lopez dropped this gem about potentially doing a two-fight series between Vegas and London, maybe even a trilogy. His exact words: "Maybe we go ahead and lock in a trilogy. You know what I mean, why not? For both fighters maybe we lock in something we can do guaranteed two fights and if one wins and one wins, we do the third."

Honestly? That's not the worst idea I've heard in boxing lately. Both fighters need each other at this point – Joshua's coming off a loss, Wilder's coming off two losses. Neither guy is getting any younger, and the heavyweight division has moved on without them while Usyk and Fury were doing their thing.

The Quiet Storm

What's interesting is how Wilder went completely dark after the Zhang knockout. Radio silence. The guy who used to scream about having "the most devastating right hand in heavyweight boxing" just... disappeared. Turns out he was dealing with personal issues and had secret arm surgery.

That actually makes me respect him more. Sometimes life hits harder than any punch, and taking time to get your head right isn't weakness – it's smart.

Lopez confirmed Wilder's ready: "Yeah, he's definitely up for these fights. Our in Kansas slated 'Legacy Reloaded' so the first two fights are just leading towards that."

Reality Check Time

Look, I'm not gonna sugarcoat this – Wilder looked terrible against Zhang. Got dropped multiple times, looked slow, looked old. At 39, father time is undefeated, and two comeback fights against handpicked opponents might not be enough to convince anyone he's still elite level.

But boxing's funny like that. One right hand can change everything, adn Wilder still has that nuclear option in his back pocket.

The Joshua fight will happen eventually – there's too much money on the table for it not to. Whether it'll be the explosive showdown we imagined five years ago? That's another story entirely.

Saturday's fight against Herndon is step one of what feels like a carefully orchestrated comeback tour. Whether Wilder can actually reload his legacy or if we're just watching a legend fade in slow motion... well, that's what makes this whole thing worth watching.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should a potential boxing trainer or coach look like?

A boxing coach should have experience in the sport, be able to work with other boxers successfully, have a compatible coaching style, as well as a solid understanding of its technical and strategic components. A good trainer will emphasize safety, fitness, and personal development. A coach that motivates and communicates well is important in order to achieve your full potential.

Is there an age limit for boxing?

Age restrictions do exist in professional boxing. Most boxing commissions require that boxers be 18 years or older to compete professionally. While there isn't a specific upper age limit, health and physical factors will limit how old you can compete safely and effectively. It's crucial for older athletes to be thoroughly assessed for fitness and risk before taking up the sport professionally.

What kind diet should an amateur boxer follow to improve their performance?

A novice should consume a diet with a balance of nutrients that supports intense workouts, and promotes recovery. The general recommendation is to eat a combination of carbohydrates and proteins for energy. Lean protein helps repair and grow muscles, while healthy fats are good for your overall health. Hydration, vitamins, and minerals are critical as well. Consulting a sports nutritionist to develop a diet plan that is tailored for the boxer's weight class and training schedule can be beneficial.

What does it take to start training for professional boxing?

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Can anyone learn professional boxing?

Not everyone can compete at the professional level. The combination of talent, physical ability, mental toughness and dedication is required for professional boxing. Prospective boxers must also be willing to face the inherent risks of the sport. A thorough evaluation by a trainer will help determine the potential of a person to have a successful career in boxing.

How do amateurs progress to professional boxers?

Transitioning from amateur to professional boxing entails a significant step up in competition, training intensity, and mental preparation. An amateur boxer must establish a strong track record of performance, typically honing skills in various local and national competitions. It is crucial to acquire a boxing license, and align yourself with experienced trainers and managers who can guide your career decisions and secure you professional bouts.

How important is physical conditioning in professional boxing?

Professional boxing requires a high level of physical conditioning. The sport requires high levels of speed, strength, endurance, agility, and endurance. Professional boxers should follow a tailored fitness plan that includes aerobic and aerobic workouts, strength and endurance training, and flexible exercises. Without superior physical conditioning, a boxer's ability to train effectively and perform in the ring is significantly compromised.

Statistics

Professional boxers typically train 4 to 6 hours per day, 5 to 6 days a week, depending on their fight schedule.
A study showed that most professional boxers have spent more than 4 years in training before their first professional bout.
Less than 10% of professional boxers are undefeated throughout their career, highlighting the sport's competitive nature.
Nutrition experts emphasize that over 70% of a boxer's diet should focus on carbohydrates and proteins for energy and recovery.
On average, a professional boxer spars between 100 to 200 rounds in preparation for a major fight.
Cardiovascular fitness is critical, with a focus on high intensity interval training, comprising up to 40% of a boxer's conditioning program.
An analysis of boxing injuries suggests that 90% involve the head, neck, and face, emphasizing the importance of protective gear.

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How To

How to Land Your First Professional Boxing Fight

In order to land your first boxing professional fight, you will need to mix training, networking, as well as marketing yourself. You can gain attention by displaying your amateur skills. Join gyms, train with trainers and promoters. These people may know about openings or opportunities on fight cards. Create promotional material, like a highlight reel of your fights, and maintain an active social media presence to build your brand. Stay prepared to fight so that when the opportunity arises you don't hesitate.