Deontay Wilder has said he still has three years left in boxing as he outlines his retirement plan as he enters the twilight of his career.
The 36-year-old former WBC heavyweight champion hasn’t fought since being knocked out by Tyson Fury in their epic trilogy fight in October 2021.
But he will mark his return to the ring later this month when he trades blows with former sparring partner Robert Helenius in New York.
After back-to-back defeats to the Gypsy King, the Bronze Bomber knows one loss will end any chance of a quick world title opportunity.
The Alabama native said he could be involved in up to NINE more future fights before he finally hangs up his gloves.
He told Sky Sports: “I’ve tried to fight only the best. I’m picking up where I left off because I’ve only got three years left – once it’s over I’m done. .
“I am three years old or less. It could be nine fights or six fights that I’m going to give and after that I’m done.
“No matter what people say, good or bad, my accomplishments will never be forgotten. I will always be here.
“I really motivate and inspire people all over the world.”
He added: “I’m one of those fighters who got away with it. I don’t need the boxing business anymore.
“I don’t need the company, the company needs me.
“It’s not where you come from, it’s where you’re trying to go. And I try to go there, I got there. Those who laugh and scoff, I guess the laughter is on you now.
Wilder then revealed he would be ready to fight in England again after knocking out Audley Harrison in 2013 in his only UK outing.
He remarked: “There is a great possibility of this happening.
“I believe it’s quite possible you’ll see me across the pond in the near future, that’s for sure.”
The 2008 Olympic bronze medalist recently backed Anthony Joshua to defeat former foe Fury if the pair ever came to blows.
And he also talked about his desire to go up against AJ with WBA, WBO and IBF king Oleksandr Usyk and Andy Ruiz Jr.