Deontay Wilder promises Wichita fans to ‘drop bombs’ in boxing comeback
Deontay Wilder has never stepped foot in Kansas, let alone Wichita.
In fact, the former WBC heavyweight champion didn’t even know where Koch Arena was — until it became the stage for his anticipated return to boxing.
Now the 39-year-old known as “The Bronze Bomber” is preparing to make Wichita the epicenter of the boxing world on Friday, June 27, when he headlines what is expected to be the biggest fight night in Kansas history.
“Has there ever been a devastating knockout out there in Wichita, Kansas before?” Wilder asked in an exclusive interview with The Eagle, genuinely curious.
When told the city’s boxing history was sparse, he didn’t hesitate.
“C’mon man!” he shouted with excitement. “I love making history. I love being the first at something.”
Wilder (43-4-1, 42 KOs) will face Tyrrell Herndon (24-5, 15 KOs) in a 10-round heavyweight clash that serves as his shot at redemption after losing four of his last five, which included his legendary trilogy with Tyson Fury.
Not only will fans get a rare chance to witness Wilder’s renowned knockout power live, but Wichita native and Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez is also set to return to the ring after a two-year hiatus. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the card beginning at 7 p.m. and streaming live on pay-per-view at BLKPrime.com.
Tickets are being sold through the promoter, Global Combat Collective, or in person at Hernandez Boxing Academy at 1901 N Market St.
“I’m looking forward to having my return in Wichita and having a great time,” Wilder said. “That’s what this is all about, especially at this moment of time in my life. The party is coming to Wichita, baby.”
For Wilder, who’s used to the glitz of Las Vegas, New York City and Los Angeles, the move to the Midwest raised eyebrows. But the Alabama native seemed invigorated by the change of scenery and the chance to fight in front of a new type of crowd.
“I’m going to be dropping bombs,” Wilder promised. “When I’m right mentally, physically and emotionally, it’s a sight to see. I have a lot of devastating knockouts on my resume. I’m a one-punch knockout artist, the hardest hitter in boxing history, period. I’m looking forward to feeling the love in Wichita and showing them who I know I am and who I’ve always been: one of the best fighters in the world.”
Wilder says a nagging shoulder injury that plagued him for years has finally healed, which has allowed him to work himself into better shape than he has been in a long time.
He hasn’t recorded a knockout since October 2022 — a streak he is confident will end in Wichita.
“We’re going to have something to talk about afterwards, that’s for sure,” Wilder said. “If you ain’t there, you’re going to wish you were.”
This story was originally published June 20, 2025 at 7:02 AM.
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