Deontay Wilder has decided to reveal all on why he turned down lucrative offers to sign with Top Rank and DAZN.
Currently happy with Showtime, ‘The Bronze Bomber’ rejected contracts which included fights with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
But the deals on the table effectively made Wilder the B-Side fighter, something the American was keen to avoid.
“The thing about having freedom is that it allows you to dictate your career,” Wilder to Al Haymon’s Premier Boxing Champions.
“When you sign with people, now they’re in control. We’ve seen many fighters get into situations with promoters and get put on the shelf.
“They have families they need to feed but they aren’t in control. You don’t want to be tied up for a long time.
“One thing I can tell you is that I have an amazing team. We came into the meeting very well prepared. I don’t think DAZN was prepared for what they saw.
“After that meeting, I went to my quiet place, meditated and did what was best for me and my family. Then I went with what energy felt right for me.
“I swallowed my pride and took a flat fee last year for Joshua. They didn’t come through.
I took a high risk, low reward fight against Ortiz. And I was willing to go to Russia to fight Alexander Povetkin.
“I showed my courage by fighting Fury right after Ortiz. I have receipts to prove that I’ve tried to be the best. Now it’s time I establish my position.”
SPLIT
Wilder believes encounters with both Joshua and Fury should now be 50-50 as all three have proven their worth.
Matchroom boss Barry Hearn recently admitted he cannot see how the fights get made with the trio intent on remaining on their respective TV platforms.
Someone has to bend or at least agree a two-fight deal with a bout on each of the participating heavyweights networks.
As things stand, Wilder, Joshua and Fury are at a stalemate. Whilst all three are due to be in action over the coming three months.
