Deontay Wilder accepts the offer to fight for the world championship title against Kevin Lerena

Deontay Wilder, the former WBC heavyweight champion, has been presented with a significant opportunity to rejuvenate his career. Kevin Lerena, the current WBC bridgerweight champion, has publicly urged Wilder to step up and accept a fight for the title. The call-out has sparked excitement among boxing fans, who are eager to see Wilder return to the ring in a new division.

Kevin Lerena Throws Down the Gauntlet

Speaking to World Boxing News (WBN), Lerena made his intentions clear:

“Let’s fight, and may the best man win!”

Lerena previously stated his willingness to give Wilder the first shot at the title, which he secured after Lawrence Okolie vacated the division. Expressing both respect and confidence, Lerena said:

“Wilder is one of the most fearsome heavyweights of all time, and I have great respect for him. But this is my time, and I fear no one!”

Wilder’s Career at a Crossroads

The invitation comes at a critical juncture for Wilder. His career has been rocky following consecutive losses to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang. Despite his struggles, Lerena sees Wilder as a dangerous and capable opponent, stating:

“Look, I know Wilder hasn’t lost in the most positive way recently [against Parker and Zhang], but this is heavyweight boxing—things happen. He’ll always be seen as a dangerous, vicious puncher, no matter what.”

Lerena has expressed his willingness to welcome Wilder into the welterweight division, provided the American fighter agrees to drop down in weight.

WBC Backs Wilder’s Bridgerweight Bid

Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the WBC, has confirmed that Wilder would have the organization’s support if he decided to compete for the bridgerweight title:

“If Wilder wants to fight for the bridgerweight championship, the WBC will approve. However, we haven’t received any communication from his camp yet.”

This opportunity could be a turning point for Wilder, who has recently broken his silence to confirm he has no plans to retire. The 39-year-old knockout artist remains one of the most feared punchers in boxing and could use this title shot to reignite his career.

Lerena Keeps His Options Open

While Lerena is keen on facing Wilder, he also has other potential matchups in mind. He mentioned Jai Opetaia, the cruiserweight champion, as another possible opponent for a major bout.

“If it’s not Wilder, then a big fight for the world title would be against Jai Opetaia. I think he’s a world-class boxer, but I’m a fighter, and it would be a great battle.”

Lerena aims to return to the ring by December or early next year, leaving time for negotiations with Wilder, Opetaia, or other notable names in the division.

Will Wilder Seize the Moment?

This could be Wilder’s chance to make history by conquering a new weight class. After a series of setbacks, this opportunity to compete for a bridgerweight title may be the boost his career needs.

The boxing world now awaits Wilder’s decision. Will he take up Lerena’s challenge and aim for glory once again?