The Bronze Bomber’s Back – Again
We all love a good comeback story. Boxing’s built on them – Ali, Foreman, even Fury’s rise from the ashes. But here in 2025, the comeback trail has led back to Deontay Wilder. Again.
Now 39, the former WBC champion is set to fight Herndon on 27 June in Wichita, Kansas. The billing? A hometown return – though let’s be honest, Wichita isn’t Tuscaloosa. Still, it’s about as close as Wilder will get to a proper send-off on home soil.
But here’s the real question: is this a last hurrah, or does Wilder truly believe there’s another run left in him?
Where Wilder Stands in 2025
Let’s get something straight. The Wilder Herndon return isn’t shaking up the heavyweight rankings.
Since his punishing trilogy with Tyson Fury, Wilder has gone 1–3 and has struggled to reclaim the fearsome aura that once made him the division’s boogeyman. He’s no longer near title contention.
The real action is elsewhere. On 19 July, Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois are set to clash at Wembley Stadium for the undisputed heavyweight crown. That’s all four belts on the line – and Wilder’s nowhere near that conversation.
Forget Anthony Joshua, too – his role these days seems more about blockbuster appearances than genuine title ambition. And Zhilei Zhang? Let’s not pretend he’s still in the picture after those recent losses.
So… What Is This Fight Really About?
Let’s be honest – it’s hard to view this bout as anything other than a showcase. Herndon isn’t ranked, isn’t threatening, and isn’t expected to do anything except get knocked out. Which suits Wilder just fine.
This isn’t a comeback in the true sense. It’s a curtain call. One last opportunity to give his fans something to cheer before bowing out on his own terms.
And frankly? That’s not a bad thing.
And What About Herndon?
Let’s not kid ourselves – Herndon isn’t coming to win. He’s a name plucked from obscurity, likely there to take a few big shots and earn a respectable payday.
The bout isn’t designed to test Wilder. It’s designed to give him a moment.
But even these types of fights carry risk. If Wilder looks sluggish, if the power’s gone, if the chin doesn’t hold… it could all unravel quickly.
Final Bell: Farewell, Not Revival
Let’s call it what it is. The Wilder Herndon return is a respectful goodbye – not a resurrection.
And that’s fine. If Wilder wants one last walk under the lights, he’s earned it. But if he lingers after this, chasing ghosts and paydays, that proud legacy could start to slip.
He’s not in the title race. He’s not in the conversation. This fight is about closure, not contention.
Your Turn – Let’s Hear It
What do you make of the Wilder Herndon return? One last dance or the start of something more? Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and join the debate.
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