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Wilder Offers $50M to Joshua for High-Stakes Fight

12/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Deontay Wilder, an American boxer, said he offered Anthony Joshua, the British boxer, $50 million to fight on the Cigar Talk podcast.
Wilder said his team was serious about the bout.
Wilder stated that financial issues were not the barrier.
The bout did not materialize due to Joshua's reluctance to take risks.
Both fighters have faced setbacks and are no longer champions, leaving unresolved questions about a Wilder-Joshua clash.

History

Historical Context

The rivalry between Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua intensified in 2018, when Wilder offered $50 million for a title fight. At that time, Joshua held three heavyweight titles, while Wilder was the WBC champion. Their negotiation struggles highlighted a trend in boxing where financial disputes often overshadow competitive matchups, raising concerns about the sport's future and the potential for high-stakes fights.

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Story summary

Deontay Wilder, an American boxer, said he offered Anthony Joshua, the British boxer, $50 million to fight on the Cigar Talk podcast.
Wilder said his team was serious about the bout.
Wilder stated that financial issues were not the barrier.
The bout did not materialize due to Joshua's reluctance to take risks.
Both fighters have faced setbacks and are no longer champions, leaving unresolved questions about a Wilder-Joshua clash.

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