Deontay Wilder was made a sharp favorite with bookmakers to defeat Tyson Fury when the contest was initially announced before the odds began to squeeze soon after.
According to some of the best betting apps on the market, Fury is as short as 5/4, starting at an eye-popping 5/2 against. Wilder can be back at a best-price 4/6 as the American bids push towards an undisputed unification with Anthony Joshua.
Wilder comes into the Fury fight on the back of a crushing knockout of Luis Ortiz. The Cuban was overwhelmed despite initially causing ‘The Bronze Bomber’ some big problems.
Since then, Wilder believes some detractors have forgotten how devastatingly he finished the veteran off with almost nine months passing since then.
“Luis Ortiz was the most avoided fighter in the heavyweight division, and I understand why he had never gotten the title shot before. I’m the type of fighter who gives people opportunities, and he was the fighter I needed to face to prove to the world what I’m all about,” said Wilder.
“This is not a game for me. Everyone has heard about what it’s like to be in the ring with me, but until you’re in there, you don’t know for sure that what you’ve been hearing is for real. I’m the best in the world. I don’t think any heavyweight has been through what I’ve been through.”
Fury presents quite a different puzzle for Wilder to solve, whilst the WBC ruler will switch his persona once the first bell rings.
“I’m training for a certain type of mission. As a fighter, I have to have the mindset that I must be ready for anything. Then, once it’s time for the bell to ring, I become ‘The Bronze Bomber.
“Fury has height just like me, and he also brings an awkward style like myself. He’s rangy, mobile and he believes he’s the best in the world. You’ll get two giants who are athletic and move around the ring like no one else in this sport.”
CHALLENGE
With Fury spending 30 months out of action before returning against two lower-key opponents, it will be tough for Wilder to gauge what kind of challenge stands in front of him until they eventually begin trading blows.
“I don’t watch too much film or study guys past getting their style down and seeing how they use their styles. My trainers watch a film and use that knowledge to give me advice throughout the fight,” he said.
“I find that my opponents fight differently depending on who they’re facing, so I can’t dwell too much on watching past fights,” added Wilder.
