Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder put the heavyweight division on notice after making a triumphant return. The Bronze Bomber made quick work of his opponent Robert Helenius, knocking him out in two minutes and 57 seconds of the first round.

Wilder landed a clean right hand, instantly knocking out “The Nordic Nightmare’. However, Wilder had a message for his fallen opponent following his victory. In the post-fight interview, he praised Helenius, claiming that he had a heart of a champion. ” I was making him reach, I was trying to keep my distance because Robert, he has a heart of a champion, I have a heart of a champion, I knew what he is capable of, I didn’t take him lightly at all. I didn’t take him for granted. I looked in his eyes. He really wanted to be his first countryman heavyweight champion of the world.” said Wilder.

Deontay Wilder details his victory over Helenius

However, he then added that he knew Helenius was going to be a tough challenge, which is why he had to circle around before getting his opportunity to strike for the finish. “With that being said, they gonna come when they’re fighting Deontay Wilder. They’re gonna come with that A-plus game and I knew that from Robert, so I had to take my time. I had to circle around the ring. I wanted to be mobile, hostile, agile tonight and I showed it and you know. I set him up, I allowed him to reach and then when he reached I attacked. So it was great Robert. I love you, man. I can’t wait to see you and who’s next.” He added.

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With another emphatic victory under him, Wilder might be ready to get back into title contention. Moreover, the performance seemed even more impressive considering his year-long layoff after his loss against Tyson Fury. The Bronze Bomber is now 43-2-1 with 42 KOs under his belt and even mentioned unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk as a potential opponent for his next fight.

However, he didn’t mention Anthony Joshua in his post-fight speech, although he was touted as a potential contender if Wilder won against Helenius. Now, Wilder has a bunch of opponents to consider for his second fight after a long hiatus.

What did you think about Wilder’s message? Let us know in the comments.

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