Deontay Wilder aims to extend knockout record
Thursday 20 August 2015 22:07, UK
Heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has vowed to become the first man to stop Johann Duhaupas when the pair meet in Alabama next month.
Wilder will put his WBC title on the line for a second time in front of his home state fans when he tackles the French challenger on September 26.
The 29-year-old floored Eric Molina three times before stopping his fellow American in the ninth round in the first defence of his title in June
"Fighting at home last time exceeded my expectations and coming back again is a blessing upon my life," said Wilder.
"I'm looking forward to bringing more boxing to Alabama and introducing the entire state to this great sport."
Undefeated knockout specialist Wilder has claimed 33 of his 34 victories inside the distance and aims to add Duhaupas to his list of victims.
"I know my opponent has great size and that's what we're looking for in opponents. He has a great record and he's never been knocked out... until he faces me," added Wilder.
"I know Duhaupas is tough and he comes to fight and that's exactly what we need."
Duhaupas will be making his US debut but the 34-year-old has fought in 10 different countries during his 11-year professional career and boasts a record of 32 wins with just two defeats via the judges' scorecards.
"I am very happy to be challenging Deontay Wilder for the heavyweight world title," said Duhaupas.
"This is a huge opportunity and I will make the most of it on September 26. Deontay is a good boxer, but I have the heart of a lion and the mental fortitude to handle anything in the ring."
Former WBC lightweight champion Omar Figueroa returns to the ring following his victory over Ricky Burns in May.
Undefeated Figuero faces Antonio DeMarco in his second fight at 140lbs after defeating fellow former champion Burns on points in a gruelling scrap in Texas.
