Deontay Wilder and Francis Ngannou both open to a 2026 clash

An ageing Deontay Wilder may have one last shot at redemption

Deontay Wilder (44-3-1, 43 KOs) looks to be chasing one last payday as his team is keen to set up a huge payday against Francis Ngannou (0-2).

Wilder is far from the fighter he once was; however, he is back in the winner's circle following a much-needed seventh-round TKO over Tyrell Herndon earlier in the year. 

Prior to the bout, ‘The Bronze Bomber’s’ career was hanging by a thread following back-to-back stoppage losses to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang.

Ngannou provides an opportunity for the 39-year-old to attempt to revive his career, as despite zero professional boxing wins, the hard-hitting former UFC heavyweight champion is still a big name who presents danger through his devastating knockout power. 

The Cameroon powerhouse last ventured into the square circle against Anthony Joshua in March 2024, where he was made quick work of by the British man.

Fortunately for Ngannou, if a Wilder fight were to go ahead, he would perhaps have a better chance at success. 

Wilder is not as tidy a puncher as Joshua, and despite his immense power, he heavily telegraphs his shots - meaning the MMA superstar may have a better chance at staying out of harm's way. 

Additionally, ‘The Bronze Bomber’ has shown in recent fights that his gas tank seems to have diminished. If Ngannou could survive into the final rounds of the contest, he could find himself with the upper hand over the former world champion. 

Speaking on the potential matchup, Wilder's team revealed they are intrigued by the prospective bout.

“Deontay would be open to that fight next year," Wilder's manager, Shelly Finkel, told Sky Sports.

The comment comes after Ngannou was asked on the Ariel Helwani Show whether he would be open to a bout against the American, to which he replied, “Yes. I do." 

"We haven't engaged personally. But [we'll talk to Wilder's team] soon."