“Don’t know if it was something mental…” Deontay Wilder SLAMMED for ‘terrible’ performance against Joseph Parker in much-anticipated return

Deontay Wilder's awful performance against Joseph Parker in the former's highly anticipated return

“Don’t know if it was something mental…” Deontay Wilder SLAMMED for ‘terrible’ performance against Joseph Parker in much-anticipated return

Shocking performance by Deontay Wilder against Joseph Parker (via Boxing Scene/Imago)

A major upset occurred recently when Deontay Wilder and Joseph Parker clashed in the ring in Saudi Arabia. Wilder went in as the fan favorite to win the bout. This mentality of the fans changed during the fight as Wilder suffered a brutal decision loss.

Boxing fans consider Wilder as one of the greatest knockout specialists ever to grace the ring. Wilder rebounded after his two straight losses to Tyson Fury against Robert Helenius. People thought a new and unbeatable version of Wilder could defeat Parker. However, the fans were in utter shock to see a “terrible” performance by the superstar. Tim Bradley, an ESPN analyst, had harsh words to say about Wilder’s performance:

Wilder looked Terrible, don't know if it was something mental… or the fact that Joseph teamed with Fury, maybe he was thinking about that through the course. Maybe he thought Joseph Parker had something for him...
Tim Bradley on Deontay Wilder
YouTube video

Experts across the globe detailed how Joseph Parker’s training with Tyson Fury impacted the fight. Fury was the first person to beat Wilder. Hence, his tips and advice on how to tackle the bronze bomber turned out to be fruitful for Team Joseph.

The breakdown of the fight could be concluded by saying that Wilder was waiting for an opportunity that never came. Joseph Parker also had the crowd on their feet in round 8 of the fight with an incredible right overhand that buckled Wilder’s knees. Parker’s valiant efforts had the crowd chanting his name in the last few rounds. It was a clear victory even before the results were announced.

Related: “I zoned out,” Deontay Wilder makes shocking admission about losing focus and dazing out against Joseph Parker

Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder: Will the fight ever happen?

Before the Wilder Parker fight, the entire boxing world wanted a redemption mega-fight between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder. Both of them had a chip on their shoulder and had to prove they were championship-worthy.

Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder
Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder (via Imago)

Anthony Joshua lost to Oleksandr Usyk, while Wilder lost to Fury. The world had its eyes glued for an announcement of the fight, but its future seemed bleak as Wilder could not accomplish the task of beating Joseph Parker. While AJ spectacularly beat Otto Wallin, the trajectory of the superfight has changed.

Both Anthony and Deontay started their boxing journey late. They were both in their late teens as they began training, but they still accomplished what most fighters couldn’t. Both of them are Olympic medal holders and also heavyweight champions at one point in time. Seeing a mega-fight between them could draw many eyes to the sport. However, the fight may need to be put on hold until Wilder can prove that he may be down but not out.

What people love is a comeback story, and now is the perfect time for Wilder to fulfill that craving of the crowd. Wilder has the tools to attempt a great comeback. However, only time will tell if he comes back to form.

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