Deontay Wilder makes return to the ring with dominant first-round knockout of Robert Helenius
- Planet Sport writer
- 16 October 2022
Deontay Wilder made a triumphant return to boxing by knocking out Robert Helenius in the first round of their fight in Brooklyn.
It was the American's first time stepping in the ring since a second consecutive loss against British boxer Tyson Fury over a year ago.
He hit Helenius with a straight punch from his famous right hand with seconds left on the clock in the opening round.
In October last year, Wilder was knocked out in the 11th round against Fury, who successfully defended his WBC heavyweight crown in their last trilogy fight in Las Vegas.
"It was a great night," said Wilder.
"I had to take my time. I was making him reach. I wanted to be mobile, agile and hostile. I set him up, allowed him to reach and then when he reached, I attacked."
He added: "We wanted to make this fun again. You can do this so long it can be a job, just something you are doing. We made it fun. It paid off big time."
Wilder is targeting Anthony Joshua as his next opponent but he may have to win a few more before getting a shot at him.
"Who's next? I'm down for whatever," Wilder said. "Andy Ruiz, Usyk or whatever. I'm back. The excitement is back in the heavyweight division."
