Fans have been left shocked by Deontay Wilder's "skinny" legs after pictures emerged of his return to the gym.
Wilder has not fought since being defeated by Tyson Fury in their trilogy battle last year, but has confirmed he is planning to make a comeback to the ring. Despite backtracking and remaining coy on a potential return, Wilder has been spotted this week making a return to the gym.
The 'Bronze Bomber' has been working alongside former world champion Badou Jack, and is also using the UFC Gym as a training facility according to UFC president Dana White. In the latest picture to emerge, Wilder has been spotted with heavyweight star Michael Hunter and fans have been quick to pick up on the size of his legs.
One fan commented: "Wilder really needs to stop skipping leg day. Man's got the skinniest legs in heavyweight history." Another agreed: "Is Deontay okay? He looks unhealthy, really thin." Another fan added: "Those skinny legs. He does realise he doesn’t need to make weight at heavyweight?"
A fan jumped to defend Wilder's weight: "People come in all shapes and sizes you know? That dude has been knocking out blokes heavier than him all his life. He’s always been skinny. He’s like me. I’m 6ft 2 200 pound and skinny but I’m strong as a ox and have have hands naturally."
One fan disagreed: "Is it me or are his legs even thinner than before, imagine the power he’d have with thicker set legs, as if he’s not got enough already. There’s still only Tyson Fury who could beat this man, but love him [Wilder] or hate him he’s a very dangerous fighter."
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A fan concluded with excitement at the possibility of his return: "Chopstick legs but still generates that power. The heavyweight scene needs Wilder back. Still the most exciting fighter out there." Wilder has a number of options on the table if he elects to return, with his stock rising even in defeat by Fury.
The Gypsy King's promoter Frank Warren claimed Wilder will face fellow heavyweight contender Robert Helenius in his first fight back later this year. However it is unlikely this will take place with Helenius currently embroiled in a legal battle over challenging the winner of Anthony Joshua's rematch with Oleksandr Usyk.
Wilder will return as a leading contender and remains ranked No.1 with the WBC. The American heavyweight believes the division will be "boring" without his presence. "One thing about boxing that I've proved is, boxing thrives off of excitement but the excitement of an American champion," he told Blue Blood Sports TV.
"Once that dies, so does boxing. it was living proof, because I'm coming back on popular demand because that's all I've been hearing from high and low. It's just been an amazing feeling, so many people have reached out and told me it's important. Without an American heavyweight boxing really isn't exciting."
