“Turning Back the Fountain of Youth”: Fans in Awe as Clip of Deontay Wilder Doing Rare Training Routine Ahead of December 23rd Return Goes Viral

It’s been over a year since fans saw Deontay Wilder in the ring. The former heavyweight champion demolished Robert Helenius in the first round of their bout in October of last year. Ever since his name has frequently cropped up against one big name or another. Last heard, a showdown with old rival Anthony Joshua almost seemed within sight. However, as it happened with other fights, this one too lost its way. Though an outside chance of a meet-up next year remains highly probable.

The two would, however, meet in Riyadh on December 23. But not as adversaries. Instead, they would be going against different opponents. While Joshua would fight the Swede Otto Wallin, Wilder would face Aussie Joseph Parker. It’s a non-title bout; however, both the former champions are taking it seriously. Wilder frequently shares footage of his training, often with trainer Malik Scott. However, for sure, even die-hard fans weren’t prepared for what they came across today.

Out of the blue, Deontay Wilder

Aptly titled ‘Deontay Wilder NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN Training he RARELY does,‘ the footage shows ‘The Bronze Bomber’ running on tracks! Soon it will be replaced by the usual video of him honing his pad-work skills with Scott. Soon, many followers chimed in with their comments.

Impressed by Wilder’s motivation to do better, this user finds it akin to visiting the youth inducing well for a more valuable outcome: “Turning back the fountain of youth for a greater return.” Then this user is intrigued by the idea that the former heavyweight champion never really established a consistent running pattern: “I find interesting that he never really did a regular routine of roadwork.”

To this fan, irrespective of what others have to say about Wilder, nobody could deny his exceptional work ethic. He continues to hone his skills despite his advancing age: “Say what you want about Wilder, but his work ethic is top-notch. Even at his age and accomplishments, he still works to improve his craft.” According to this follower, no one would be able to check on ‘The Bronze Bomber’ once he gets his legs in shape: “Wilder would definitely be unstoppable if he builds those legs up!”

Finally, this user seems wonderstruck at how Deontay Wilder, in light of his frail frame, could muster so much power: “The power he generates makes no sense considering how slim he is.”

Clearly, the YouTube short has taken most viewers by surprise. Wilder has to be prepared for all eventualities. If the fight with Parker goes the distance, then there’s no way he could afford to lose stamina halfway through the fight.

The journey to become king

WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman called the upcoming Riyadh match-up ‘a natural WBC elimination tournament.‘ Anticipating that Joshua and Wilder would come out as the winners, he said, ““You have Wilder, No. 1, Joshua, you have Parker, you have Otto Wallin; all those are highly ranked in the WBC. After December 23, we’re going to see a different picture in the rankings. It looks like Wilder and Joshua are on a collision course. That could very well be a final elimination to determine a mandatory contender for the WBC title.”

In an update to Sky Sports, the WBC clarified that if both Wilder and Joshua win on December 23, then they could meet next year. But they also clarified that a heavyweight title fight will not take place. Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are meeting in February for the undisputed title. There’s a strong chance of a rematch to follow. Hence, only after that challenger would he get a chance to stake a claim at the WBC belt.

Read More: “It’s Over for Parker!”: Endearing Video of Deontay Wilder With His Daughter Gets Fans All Hyped Up for the Joseph Parker Bout

Do you think Joseph Parker would be able to turn the tables on a boxer like Deontay Wilder? Please share your views with us in the comments below.

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