As he returns this weekend in Saudi Arabia, it is important to remember how old was Deontay Wilder when he started boxing. What a journey.
The Deontay Wilder story in boxing is criminally under rated.
As he gets ready for China’s Zhang this weekend in Saudi, the 38-year-old Wilder has come a long way.
The Road Less Traveled, One Of Determination
Unlike most professional boxers who begin their training in the sport in early childhood or adolescence, Deontay Wilder’s journey into the ring started much later in fact.
People forget before Wilder put in a pair of boxing gloves he was already 20 years old.
When he first stepped into Skyy Boxing Gym in Northport, Alabama, in October 2005.
Think about that.
Floyd Mayweather’s father had boxing gloves on him as soon as he could walk.
This relatively late start for Wilder is highly unusual in a sport where athletes often dedicate their entire lives to honing their skills as boxers.
Wilder is still learning his craft and reportedly has been working on his defence quite a bit.
Motivation Behind the Gloves In The First Place
Wilder’s initial motivation for boxing wasn’t driven by a lifelong passion for the sport, or even being that much of a fan in the beginning.
Instead, he was seeking a way to provide for his daughter, who was born with spina bifida, a rare disease.
The financial burden of medical expenses led him to explore different avenues to provide for his daughter, eventually landing him at the boxing gym.
He viewed professional boxing as a way to earn extra money for her.
It was here, under the tutelage of Jay Deas and later the guidance of Mark Breland, that Wilder discovered his natural talent, his ability to knock people out and a newfound passion for boxing was essentially born.
Rapid Ascent in Boxing
Despite his late start as an amateur and then professional boxer, Wilder’s progression in the sport was meteoric really.
Within two years of starting his training, he had won both the National Golden Gloves and the US Championships in 2007.
Wilder had very strong amateur pedigree despite those who criticise his boxing ability.
He also captured a bronze medal at heavyweight for the United States at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
His powerful punching ability and athleticism quickly set him apart, a potent combination.
Soon after he turned over to become a professional boxing he would go on to become a world-renowned heavyweight champion unbeaten for quite some time before finally losing.
Age In Boxing Is Often Irrelevant
Deontay Wilder’s story is a proof of the fact that age is no barrier to success in boxing.
Or any other endeavor professionally or in life.
His determination, combined with natural talent and rigorous training over the years, allowed him to overcome his late start and achieve greatness in the ring.
That and one heck of a punch.
Wilder by many analysts is considered the hardest hitting boxer that ever lived. Of all time.
He only needs one punch to close a show quickly.
He’s dangerous, therefore, still, at his age, in any round.
Wilder’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring and would be athletes of all ages.
Proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
Legacy of the Bronze Bomber
Deontay Wilder’s unique path to boxing stardom has left an indelible mark on the sweet science.
He has challenged conventional norms and shown that success can be achieved through unconventional means.
He used to work multiple jobs in the beginning of his boxing career, too. Wilder’s focus when he is tuned in can never be questioned.
His story is a stark reminder that passion, perseverance, and work ethic can overcome any obstacle.
Regardless of when you start your journey.
Something that if Zhang is wise this weekend will take into consideration when stepping in there against Wilder.
To underestimate him would be stupid.
Wilder even is honest enough to say that if he loses this weekend he’ll consider retirement.
Wilder seems to be in a great place at the moment.
Time will tell what happens this weekend but the knockout win is always a possibility.
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