5. Anthony Joshua
Already the Olympic gold medallist has made waves in the division with the style of his early victories. It is too soon really to put him in at world level, Joshua has Commonwealth and British titles to win yet, but aside from his championship winning effort against Bermane Stiverne, Wilder has not face a vastly dissimilar level of opposition to the men Joshua has beaten.
4. Bryant Jennings
Jennings, Wilder’s countryman, may not have beaten Wladimir Klitschko, but he did enhance his own reputation. He performed better than expected against the masterful Ukrainian, going the distance and looking problematic at times. A contest with Wilder would have the added allure of being an all-American heavyweight title fight.
3. Tyson Fury
Of course, Fury has the not insignificant matter of fighting Wladimir Klitschko (the date we hope, to be confirmed). If he wins, Wilder is the natural fight to make for the Englishman. But if he loses, Wilder-Fury would still be fascinating, two huge personalities, the build-up alone would guarantee entertainment.
2. Alexander Povetkin
The Russian is Wilder’s number one contender. Klitschko may have won a comprehensive points victory over him but Povetkin is very dangerous for Wilder, he served notice of that with a devastating knockout victory over Mike Perez in only a round. Povetkin would present Wilder his most serious challenge yet.
1. Wladimir Klitschko
Klitschko versus Wilder for all the major heavyweight world titles would be hugely significant for the sport. It would create an undisputed ruler of the division, it would pit the loud, exciting American against the dominant champion and would either allow Klitschko to hold all four belts at the same time, the one accolade that has so far eluded him, or create a new star in the sport.
