Former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has criticized longtime rival Deontay Wilder, describing him as “shot to bits” and urging him to retire ahead of a scheduled December 11, 2026 fight against Jai Opetaia.
What Did Tyson Fury Say About Deontay Wilder?
Speaking to FightHype in comments reported November 6, Fury said: “He shouldn’t be in the ring, he should be nowhere near a ring.” Fury suggested Wilder should have retired after their third fight in October 2021.
Tyson Fury Questions Wilder’s Knockout Power
Fury cited Wilder’s April 2026 victory over Derek Chisora, arguing that Chisora absorbed punches that might once have ended a fight. That assessment is Fury’s opinion, not an established measure of Wilder’s punching power.
Deontay Wilder vs. Jai Opetaia: Date and Where to Watch
- Date: December 11, 2026
- Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales
- Matchup: Deontay Wilder vs. Jai Opetaia
- Main event: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua
- Streaming: Netflix
Wilder’s bout with undefeated cruiserweight standout Opetaia is scheduled for the Fury–Joshua undercard.
Tyson Fury vs. Deontay Wilder Trilogy Results
December 1, 2018: Split Draw
The first fight ended in a draw after Wilder knocked Fury down twice, including in the final round.
February 22, 2020: Fury Wins by TKO
Fury stopped Wilder in the seventh round to claim the WBC heavyweight championship.
October 9, 2021: Fury Wins by Knockout
Fury won their third meeting by 11th-round knockout after both fighters scored knockdowns.
Why Does Fury Think Wilder Should Retire?
Fury expressed concern about the punishment Wilder could take in further bouts. He also speculated that financial considerations might influence Wilder’s decision to continue fighting, without offering evidence about Wilder’s finances.
Will Deontay Wilder Retire?
Wilder has not announced that he will retire after the Opetaia bout. His December performance may shape discussion about his boxing future, but Fury’s comments remain an assessment by a former rival.
What’s Next?
Fury is scheduled to face Anthony Joshua on the same December 11 card. Meanwhile, Wilder has an opportunity to respond to the criticism with his performance against Opetaia.