Deontay Wilder, the former heavyweight boxing champion, celebrated his return to the ring on Sunday morning, October 16, with a stunning signature stoppage of Robert Helenius, glamsquad reports.
Wilder was fighting for the first time since his second consecutive – and concussive – defeat by Tyson Fury more than a year ago, as he embarked on a comeback journey in the hopes of reclaiming the heavyweight world title.
Former sparring partner Helenius was easily dispatched by Wilder, who landed a short right hand – Wilder’s third of the fight – while backed up in the corner, leaving the Finn prone on the canvas and in need of medical attention.
Wilder took his time in the beginning, looking to shed any ring rust before exploding with a right hand that was high, wide, and not particularly attractive.
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Helenius was knocked out with just seconds left in the round by a right hand, and the fight was immediately stopped.
“It’s incredible to be back in Brooklyn. “This arena is like a second home to me,” Wilder said.
“It feels great to be back; when I stepped off the plane and onto the ground, I felt a surge of energy.” I felt love and support, and that was all I needed. I knew it would be a fantastic night for me, and it was.
“I tried to keep my distance because Robert has a champion’s heart and I knew what he was capable of.” I didn’t take him for granted, and when I looked him in the eyes, he was clear that he wanted it. When they face Deontay Wilder, they bring their A++ game.
“I set him up, let him reach, and when he did, I tagged him.” Who’s next? It was a fantastic fight. I’d heard rumors about [Oleksandr] Usyk, but he’s not here. Most of the time, when guys say they want me and come to my shows, they knock me out like they’re turning the corner.
“Bring it on, whoever it is, whether it’s Andy Ruiz or Usyk.” With the return of Deontay Wilder, the division’s excitement has returned. That is a fact: there is no heavyweight division without Deontay Wilder!”