DEONTAY WILDER was going to speak to the media this evening. That conference however was cancelled, although the WBC heavyweight champion issued a statement instead. His comments were directed squarely at Anthony Joshua, who unified the IBF, WBA and WBO world titles with his unanimous victory over Joseph Parker in Cardiff on Saturday.
Wilder has conceded that he would come to Britain to take a contest with Joshua that would decide the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
“First of all, I want to congratulate Anthony Joshua on his win last Saturday night. Anthony, I am so glad we finally heard from you on Saturday and that you want to fight me as your next opponent and you want the fight to happen in the UK,” Wilder said in a statement.
“I accept that challenge and I am ready to come to the UK for my next fight. There is nothing on Team Wilder’s side to prevent me from fighting you next.”
The signs are however that there is a long way to go when it comes to negotiations between the two sides. “You also said on Saturday that your team is ready to meet with Shelly Finkel and Al Haymon from my side to get this deal done. They are also ready to meet with your team immediately. Let us know when – the sooner the better,” Wilder continued.
“Thanks Anthony, I can’t wait to meet you in the ring.”
