KING LEWIS THE FOURTH

Hamilton wins the world title AJ needs to get Wilder

LEWIS Hamilton was crowned world champion for a fourth time despite a third-corner shunt with title rival Sebastian Vettel in Mexico.

The Mercedes star became the most successful British F1 driver in history after finishing ninth as Vettel came home fourth.

Hamilton, above, was forced to pit after being hit by the German on the first lap but still joined Alain Prost as a four-time champion.

“Viva Mexico!” said Hamilton. “I had a good a start, I don’t know what happened. I gave Vettel plenty of room. It doesn’t feel real. It’s not the race I wanted, 40 seconds behind, but I never gave up. “A big thank you to my family, my team, Mercedes have been incredible for these last five years. That is what is important and in my heart.” Toto Wolff, the Mercedes boss, questioned Vettel’s actions on the first lap. Wolff said: “It was a bizarre accident. But the important thing is Lewis has done it.” ANTHONY JOSHUA believes he needs to face Deontay Wilder for the good of boxing.

The IBF and WBA heavyweight champion battered brave challenger Carlos Takam at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Saturday night and now wants to face America’s WBC title holder Wilder in 2018. “I need it. Boxing needs it, 100 per cent I do. It has to happen,” said Joshua.

Promoter Eddie Hearn would prefer to get the unbeaten American to London in February to take on Dillian Whyte – who beat Robert Helenius on points on the undercard on Saturday night – before the winner faces Joshua in the summer.

Wilder said: “I declare war. I am declaring war upon AJ.”