The heavyweight combat sports world is buzzing after Deontay Wilder responded to a public challenge from former UFC champion Francis Ngannou.
Ngannou, who has transitioned between MMA and boxing, first called for a showdown with Wilder earlier this year on The Ariel Helwani Show. He later doubled down by posting a video of himself smashing pads with the caption: “It’s time to finally settle the debate, [Deontay Wilder].”
Now, Wilder has fired back with a fiery message of his own.
Wilder Responds: “I’m Ten Toes Down”
In a clip shared to social media, the former WBC heavyweight champion showcased his trademark knockout power on the mitts before issuing a chilling response:
“Respect, but I’m ten toes down. No fear, no fold, no fake. Always ready, always solid. Step in the ring and you’ll see what that means, [Francis Ngannou].”
The message leaves little doubt that Wilder is willing to meet Ngannou in the ring to settle the long-running debate over who truly possesses the heaviest hands in combat sports.
Comparing Recent Form
Both fighters head into a potential clash with mixed recent results.
Deontay Wilder is currently rebuilding after back-to-back defeats to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang. He returned to winning ways in June, stopping Tyrell Herndon in seven rounds, although the performance drew criticism. Wilder is expected to fight again later this year before a possible mega-fight with Ngannou in 2026.
Francis Ngannou last stepped into the boxing ring in March 2024, suffering a brutal knockout loss to Anthony Joshua. That came just months after a razor-thin split-decision defeat to Tyson Fury in his professional boxing debut.
However, Ngannou rebounded in style in MMA, knocking out Renan Ferreira at PFL: Battle of the Giants to win the promotion’s inaugural Super Fights heavyweight title. With limited star power in PFL’s heavyweight division, Ngannou is widely expected to pursue boxing again.
Wilder vs Ngannou – A Clash of Power
For years, fans have debated whether Wilder’s knockout power in boxing or Ngannou’s devastating striking in MMA is more dangerous. With both men now circling each other publicly, a potential 2026 super-fight could finally give combat sports fans the answer.
