Boxing: Heavyweight Titlist Deontay Wilder to Return Sept. 26

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Unbeaten WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder is set to return to action on Sept. 26 and for the second straight time, he’ll be fighting in his home state of Alabama. It was announced Thursday afternoon that “The Bronze Bomber” will defend his belt against Johann Duhaupas inside the Legacy Arena in Birmingham.

NBC will televise the event in primetime as part of its partnership with Premier Boxing Champions. It will be the first time since May 20, 1985 that NBC has aired a heavyweight title bout in primetime, when Larry Holmes defeated Carl Williams in Reno.

The fight will be the second title defense for Wilder (34-0, 33 KOs), who last fought on June 13 when he knocked out Eric Molina in the ninth. The hulking champion is excited to be fighting in front of his hometown fans again and it was evident at Thursday’s press conference to officially announce the match.

“Fighting at home last time exceeded my expectations and coming back again is a blessing upon my life,” Wilder said. “I’m looking forward to bringing more boxing to Alabama and introducing the entire state to this great sport. I know my opponent has great size and that’s what we’re looking for in opponents. He has a great record and he’s never been knocked out…until he faces me.”

Duhaupas (32-2, 20 KOs) is a virtual unknown from France, but he is confident he can pull off the upset when they lock horns in just over a month.

“I am very happy to be challenging Deontay Wilder for the heavyweight world title,” the Frenchman said. “This is a huge opportunity and I will make the most of it on Sept. 26. Deontay is a good boxer, but I have the heart of a lion and the mental fortitude to handle anything in the ring.”