Hearn Wants to Sign Wilder

Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn responded to comments from Chinese heavyweight Zhang Zhilei (26-2-1, 21 KOs) about the reasons for appointing Deontay Wilder (43-3-1, 42 KOs) as the captain of his team.

"I would like to sign Deontay Wilder. I believe he is one of the best heavyweights in the world, one of the most exciting heavyweights in the world, but Zhang Zhilei is too.

I want to see Wilder explode on Saturday night. It is an honor to represent Deontay for just one fight, and hopefully, as Zhang Zhilei said, this will indeed lead to a promotional contract in the future.

But all that matters is Saturday night, and I believe you will see one of the most brutal knockouts you have ever seen in the heavyweight division, with Wilder making a statement and reestablishing himself as the most dangerous man in the heavyweight division," said Hearn.

Wilder will face Zhilei as part of the 5 vs 5 tournament between promotional companies. Deontay's points will be doubled if he wins.