Deontay Wilder Grabs a Win — But Did Little Else Worth Talking About

Click here to see the video of Wilder’s stoppage victory.

Deontay Wilder Grabs a Win — But Did Little Else Worth Talking About

In his first fight since June 2024, Deontay Wilder (44-4-1) returned to the ring Friday night in Wichita, Kansas, and secured a seventh-round TKO over journeyman Tyrrell Herndon (25-6)  . But make no mistake: this victory felt more like bureaucratic—Wilder got the job done but left no lasting impression. As one writer put it, he “did not reflect his once‑feared punching power”  .

He scored knockdowns early on (2nd and 6th), but the trademark right-hand thunder we all associate with the “Bronze Bomber” was absent. Yes, he won—but with little flair or

Shaking the Rug: Wilder No Longer Works with Malik Scott

Perhaps the biggest subplot was Wilder’s split with longtime trainer Malik Scott—a professional and amicable parting of ways  . No backstage friction, just two brothers on good terms deciding to try fresh voices in the corner. Scott echoed the sentiment: “He’s in good hands,” referring to new head coach Don House.

Don House, who was in the boxing circle with the late Diego ‘Chico’ Corrales and Derrick Harmon, but did not serve as the head trainer of each boxer. House made his name in the fight world serving as a UFC cut man.

Average at Best—What’s Next for Wilder?

Post-fight rhetoric from Wilder and promoter Nelson Lopez Jr. leans heavily on the idea of “warm-up fights” throughout 2025, aiming to build back confidence and sharpen tools ahead of a potential 2026 showdown with Anthony Joshua or Francis Ngannou  . But an underwhelming display like this raises big questions:

• Is there genuine interest from elite contenders if he can’t show dominance?

• Can Wilder evolve his approach—defense, ring generalship, work rate—under new guidance?

• Will we even see meaningful improvements before that anticipated mega-fight?

There’s talk of more tune-ups—but after a performance like this, sparklers won’t cut it. He needs artillery shells.

Wednesday’s Group Chat Drama: Predictions vs. Reality

Highlights from Wednesday night’s Group Chat Podcast painted a different picture:

• Damien confidently called it, saying Wilder would win in round 3. ❌

• Nick went further: a first-round KO! ❌

Both predictions missed the mark—though Wilder did earn a stoppage, it didn’t come nearly fast enough to electrify the crowd or match the bold expectations.

So What’s Next?

Wilder checks the win box. But the effort was pedestrian, not what he needed or what everyone expected to see. He’s 39; time isn’t a luxury. To justify a return to elite competition, or even cash interest.

Otherwise, this comeback could quietly fade into tune-up obscurity. The win may be back on his résumé—but with little to build on until it’s backed by substance.

There’s growing speculation that Deontay Wilder’s return to the ring isn’t just about legacy or unfinished business—it’s personal. Many believe that part of his motivation to continue fighting stems from his love and responsibility for his daughter Naieya, who was born with spina bifida. Wilder has spoken candidly in the past about how her medical needs pushed him to turn pro in the first place, trading a job at IHOP for a pair of gloves and a dream.

Wilder’s last three nights: victory, parting ways, missed fireworks. He’s reset, but the engine remains curious at best.