Deontay Wilder, the former World Boxing Champion, has revealed that he is from Edo State, Nigeria.
Mr Wilder, who has never visited Nigeria, said he would like to return to Edo State to learn more about his ancestors.
“Once I’m done with what I’m doing, I’m going back to see my tribe Edo. I want to see my culture and my ancestors and learn a lot of things. We all have lots of things that we are connected to that we know nothing about. I’ll love to go there and do research about my roots and my tribe,” Deontay Wilder.
Between 2015 and 2020, the American professional boxer held the WBC heavyweight title for five years, before losing it to Tyson Fury in February 2020.
It’s unclear whether Wilder’s realization of his heritage influenced his new nickname, “Bronze Bomber.” The Binis are well-known for their bronze-smithing skills. During colonial incursions, many antique Benin bronze carvings were transported to the West.
After suffering his first professional defeat at the hand of Fury in a seven round bout last February, the former WBC champion will in July seek to reclaim his title as he takes on Fury for the third time.
The fight is billed to be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Nevada on July 24 and the winner would challenge Anthony Joshua.
Nigeria has been a force in world boxing since the 1940’s, producing top boxers like Dick Tiger and Hogan Bassey; both undisputed world champions, Tiger at middle and light heavyweight, and Bassey at featherweight.
The country has continued to maintain its dominance in the world of boxing today, producing world champions like Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder
