Deontay Wilder Ends Three-Year Losing Streak With Seventh-Round TKO In Wichita

Deontay Wilder secured a seventh-round TKO victory against Tyrrell Herndon in Wichita, Kansas, marking his first win since October 2022 and an end to a challenging run with three losses in his previous four fights. Despite the win, Wilder showed signs of decline, struggling with the accuracy and power of his signature right hand, which had been affected by a right shoulder problem, leading him to rely more on his left hook and jab. The fight, held in a modest setting without major TV coverage, lacked the fanfare of Wilder's past headline bouts, reflecting a stripped-back phase in his career as he approaches 40 years old. Herndon, visibly exhausted by the later rounds, offered limited offense and eventually stopped fighting back, prompting the referee to stop the bout. Wilder expressed that this fight was a new beginning as he continues to repair himself emotionally and physically, indicating potential plans to continue boxing despite previous hints at retirement. Overall, while the victory keeps alive hopes for Wilder's return to higher-profile contests, it also highlights the adjustments he must make to remain competitive in the heavyweight division.