DEONTAY WILDER

USA, 31 years old, 38-0 (37)

LAST FIGHT:

A February five-round bludgeoning of substitute Gerald Washington at his local Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. Wilder did what he always has since he’s been WBC champion: struggle a bit but never a lot, and use his incredible physical advantages to win.

NEXT FIGHT:

In the least necessary world heavyweight title rematch since Sonny Liston obliterated Floyd Patterson a second time (way back in 1963), Wilder is pencilled in to again trounce his WBC mandatory, Bermane Stiverne. Other rumoured opponents are Tony Bellew, Dillian Whyte, Joseph Parker and – of course – Joshua. But Wilder has not yet faced a No.1 contender since dethroning Stiverne in 2015 and may be forced into this one.

BEST ATTRIBUTE:

Wilder is a fearsome competitor and though it’s easy to criticise his flaws, it’s a darn sight more difficult to stand up to one of his power shots. When he finds his range, Wilder is arguably the hardest puncher in the division.

WORST ATTRIBUTE:

Even now, nine years into his professional career, Wilder can still look like he’s been hauled out of a 19th century Saloon bar punch-up, and let loose in a modern day boxing ring. That gung-ho style is effective, but it’s surely only a matter of time before someone figures it out.

WHO SHOULD HE AVOID?

One suspects a motivated Fury would beat him soundly, Joshua is too polished and accurate, and Klitschko – should he be interested – far too experienced. Wilder should not be advised to avoid them though – Wilder vs anyone is almost guaranteed to be great fun.

HOW HIGH CAN HE GO?

It’s feasible that Wilder fights at the level of his opposition, and now needs to go up a level and then we’ll see what he’s really about. Still only 31, he remains a work in progress and could turn out to be Joshua’s biggest threat.