In a stunning move that has left the boxing world buzzing, Deontay Wilder, the hard-hitting heavyweight from Tuscaloosa, Alabama—often celebrated by fans of Edo heritage for his warrior spirit—has dismissed a long-anticipated bout with Anthony Joshua, instead setting his sights on a crossover showdown with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou.

Wilder’s camp confirmed this unexpected pivot in an interview released earlier this week, where the 38-year-old knockout artist openly rejected negotiations with Joshua’s team, stating that the time had passed and the stakes were no longer appealing.

“I’m not chasing ghosts,” Wilder said. “Joshua had his time, and he ducked me when it mattered. Now, it’s about legacy—and a fight with Ngannou? That’s history in the making.”

The End of Joshua vs. Wilder?

For years, fans and pundits dreamed of a Wilder vs. Joshua clash—a battle between two former heavyweight champions with devastating power. Talks nearly materialized in 2018, but promotional disputes and timing issues derailed the fight. Since then, both fighters have taken hits to their legacies: Joshua has suffered multiple defeats, while Wilder lost twice to Tyson Fury and recently dropped a decision to Joseph Parker.

With both careers in flux, many believed a showdown between the two could serve as a redemption arc. But Wilder seems determined to move in a different direction.

“There’s nothing exciting about fighting Joshua anymore,” said a source from Wilder’s inner circle. “The fans want something fresh, something fierce—and that’s Ngannou.”

Why Ngannou?

Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight kingpin, made waves when he stepped into the boxing ring against Tyson Fury in October 2023. Despite being an underdog, Ngannou shocked the world by knocking Fury down and taking the fight the full distance, losing only by split decision. That performance instantly legitimized him as a serious contender in the world of boxing.

Wilder, known for his own raw power and aggression, sees in Ngannou a mirror image of himself—a fighter from humble beginnings with unmatched knockout potential.

“It’s not just a fight. It’s a collision of two of the most dangerous men on the planet,” Wilder stated. “Ngannou earned his stripes. Now let’s give the world a fight they never saw coming.”

Desperation or Strategy?

Critics argue that Wilder’s move is one of desperation rather than strategy. Following back-to-back setbacks, some suggest that Wilder is chasing novelty to stay relevant rather than rebuilding his path toward a heavyweight title.

“This isn’t about titles anymore,” said boxing analyst Carl Thompson. “It’s about spectacle. Wilder knows he can’t beat Usyk or Fury again, but Ngannou? That’s a winnable war that sells tickets.”

Despite doubts, fan interest is surging. Social media exploded after Wilder’s comments, with fans rallying around the potential for a power-punching slugfest between two of combat sports’ biggest hitters.

What’s Next?

Wilder’s team has reportedly reached out to Ngannou’s representatives, and early discussions are underway. A proposed date in late 2025 has been floated, with Saudi Arabia or Las Vegas likely destinations for the mega-fight.

For now, Joshua remains silent, with no official comment on Wilder’s snub. Meanwhile, Ngannou’s camp appears intrigued.

“Francis respects Wilder,” said a spokesperson for Ngannou. “If the business is right, and the fight is real—let’s talk.”

Final Thoughts

In a sport where matchups are often dictated by politics and ego, Deontay Wilder’s bold redirection is as unpredictable as his right hand. Whether this path leads to revival or ruin remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: a showdown between Wilder and Ngannou could be the explosive event boxing didn’t know it needed—until now.

Sometimes, to find redemption, you have to walk a different path. And Wilder just made his move.