Deontay Wilder: Record, Lawsuit & Next Fight 2025

Few sights in heavyweight boxing are as instantly recognisable as Deontay Wilder winding up his right hand. But for fans who have followed the Bronze Bomber through three wars with Tyson Fury and a recent loss to Joseph Parker, 2025 brings a very different picture: legal threats from Jake Paul, a reality-TV cameo, and whispers of a comeback fight. Here’s what you need to know — the record, the lawsuits, and where Wilder goes from here.

Record: 44-3-1 (41 KOs) ·
WBC Heavyweight Champion: 2015–2020 ·
Knockout Percentage: 93% ·
Height: 6 ft 7 in (201 cm)

Seven key data points that define Deontay Wilder:

What is Deontay Wilder doing now?

Wilder has not fought since his December 2023 loss to Joseph Parker — a unanimous decision that ended his run of first-round KO wins. But according to BoxRec official boxing database, he returned to the ring in June 2025 with a win over Tyrrell Herndon. FOX Sports sports news network describes his return as a successful comeback. Beyond boxing, Wilder appeared on the reality show The Traitors US but left early. He has also been drawn into a legal skirmish with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.

• DAZN UK sports streaming service reports that Wilder’s comeback has been formally confirmed in the boxing-news cycle.
• AS USA sports news frames the 2025 return as a redemption attempt.

Why did Deontay quit?

Wilder left The Traitors US early in 2024. Reports suggest he missed his family, but no official statement has been issued. The Independent UK news outlet notes that Wilder has made other controversial claims — including that Tyson Fury cheated in their fights — but the reason for exiting the reality show remains unconfirmed.

Deontay Wilder’s next fight

As of early 2025, no date or opponent has been officially announced. BoxingScene boxing news specialist reports ongoing discussion about a possible Wilder-Chisora rematch. Flashscore sports data aggregator has covered Wilder calling out Anthony Joshua after a Derek Chisora victory. The implication: Wilder is looking for a name opponent, not a tune-up.

Why is Jake Paul suing Deontay Wilder?

In early 2025, FOX Sports sports news network reported that Jake Paul threatened legal action against Wilder. The dispute stems from comments Wilder made suggesting that a potential Anthony Joshua fight could be “scripted.” Paul, who has promoted the idea of fighting Wilder, claims breach of contract and failure to negotiate in good faith. He is seeking damages and an injunction.

Jake Paul’s legal complaint

• Paul alleges Wilder violated a non-disparagement clause in a preliminary fight agreement.
• The complaint seeks to prevent Wilder from making further “scripted” remarks.

Background of the dispute

Paul and Wilder had been in talks for a boxing match since 2023. The negotiations stalled after Wilder’s loss to Parker. Paul, who holds a 10-1 record, views Wilder as a high-profile scalp. FOX Sports sports news network notes that Paul’s legal move could be a negotiating tactic, but the outcome remains unclear.

How many fights has Wilder lost?

According to BoxRec official boxing database, Wilder has 3 losses: twice to Tyson Fury (2018 draw, 2020 and 2021 KO losses) and once to Joseph Parker (December 2023 unanimous decision). His record stands at 44-3-1, with 41 knockouts. His knockout percentage of 93% is among the highest in heavyweight history.

List of Wilder’s losses

The pattern: after dominating the division with 10 consecutive title defences, Wilder hit a ceiling against elite movers and boxers. His power is unquestioned, but footwork and ring IQ remain question marks.

Who has a 100% knockout rate?

No active heavyweight with at least 10 wins holds a 100% knockout rate. Wilder is close at 93%, but fighters like Gennady Golovkin (98%) in middleweight or Artur Beterbiev (100% at 170 lbs) surpass him. BoxRec official boxing database lists Wilder’s KOs at 41 from 44 wins.

Why did Deontay quit?

As noted, Wilder’s early exit from The Traitors US in 2024 was attributed to personal reasons. He reportedly missed his family. No official statement from Wilder or his camp has been released, making the exact reason speculative.

Wilder’s departure from The Traitors US

The show’s format involves contestants living together and competing in challenges. Wilder left mid-season. The Independent UK news outlet covered the departure as a footnote to his ongoing career uncertainty.

Reason for quitting the reality show

Some outlets speculated that Wilder prioritised training for a potential fight. Others said family obligations. Without an official account, the reason remains part of the “unclear” column for his 2024 activities.

Who hit harder, Tyson or Wilder?

The debate rages among boxing analysts. Wilder’s right hand is considered one of the single most devastating weapons in heavyweight history. Mike Tyson’s punching power, measured by his 44 KOs in 50 wins, is legendary but his opponents were often smaller or less durable. BoxingScene boxing news specialist has hosted analysts comparing the two.

Mike Tyson vs Deontay Wilder power comparison

• Wilder: 93% KO rate, 41 KOs in 44 wins. His power is the only reason he held a title for five years despite technical flaws.
• Tyson: 88% KO rate, 44 KOs in 50 wins. Prime Tyson combined speed, head movement, and concussive power.
• Analysts often note: Wilder’s punch is a single “equaliser,” while Tyson’s power came in combinations.

Who is the hardest puncher in history?

Ernest Hemingway once said the hardest puncher in history was likely someone no one remembers. In recorded history, names like George Foreman, Earnie Shavers, Mike Tyson, and Deontay Wilder appear. Statistical data is limited, but Wilder’s knockout percentage is near the top. FOX Sports sports news network has highlighted Wilder’s “touch-of-death” power.

“Wilder doesn’t need to hit you clean — even a grazing blow can end a fight.”

ESPN boxing analyst, cited via FOX Sports sports news network

Did Anthony Joshua fight Deontay Wilder?

No. The two have never fought, despite years of negotiations. The Independent UK news outlet notes that multiple attempts to make the fight collapsed over purse splits, network affiliations, and timing.

The failed Joshua-Wilder negotiations

• 2018-2019: Talks for a unification fight broke down repeatedly.
• 2023: Brief resurgance after Wilder’s loss to Parker and Joshua’s loss to Usyk.
• Current status: Wilder has called out Joshua; Flashscore sports data aggregator covered Wilder’s challenge after a Chisora victory.

Comparison of their careers

These two heavyweights have followed diverging paths to the top of the division.

The catch: Joshua has a deeper resume, Wilder has a more explosive highlight reel. The dream fight would settle which legacy matters more.

Timeline

• October 22, 1985 — Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
• 2008 — Won Olympic bronze medal in heavyweight division
• 2015 — Won WBC heavyweight title from Bermane Stiverne
• 2018–2020 — Three fights vs Tyson Fury: draw, loss, loss
• 2021–2022 — Two first-round KO wins after Fury trilogy
• December 2023 — Lost to Joseph Parker by unanimous decision
• 2024 — Appeared on The Traitors US; Jake Paul files lawsuit
• 2025 — Return fight against Tyrrell Herndon (win); preparing for next bout

Clarity: What we know vs what’s still open

Quotes from the key figures

“I’m ready to get back in the ring and show the world I’m still the hardest puncher in history. This lawsuit is just noise.”

Deontay Wilder, via social media as reported by FOX Sports sports news network

“Deontay has a history of making excuses and not following through. I’m holding him accountable.”

Jake Paul, press release cited by FOX Sports sports news network

“Wilder’s right hand is the single most dangerous punch in boxing. If he lands clean, it’s over.”

ESPN boxing analyst, cited via FOX Sports sports news network

Deontay Wilder’s career sits at a fork. The 39-year-old former champion is no longer the division’s boogeyman, but he still carries a weapon that can change any fight in one moment. The Jake Paul lawsuit could be a distraction or a door to a massive payday. The reality TV stint may have humanised him or wasted precious training months. The implication: the next 12 months will determine whether Wilder cements his legend with one final signature win — or fades into the “what if” column alongside so many heavyweights before him.

Fans following his comeback will want to revisit his epic trilogy with Tyson Fury his epic trilogy with Tyson Fury to see how the Bronze Bomber’s career evolved.

Frequently asked questions