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‘This Was My Toughest Fight’ — Deontay Wilder Reveals His Hardest Opponent

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Aug 30, 2025 11:32 AM ET

The KO artist’s answer may surprise fans after years of unforgettable battles

Deontay Wilder has reentered the win column, shaking off the sting of his December 2023 defeat to Joseph Parker. In June 2025, the former heavyweight champion returned in emphatic fashion, scoring a seventh-round stoppage over journeyman Tyrrell Herndon. The knockout reminded fans of Wilder’s trademark power, but the real intrigue now lies in what comes next. With his next move still under wraps, Wilder has been reflecting on the past—and one revelation caught plenty of attention.

In a recent conversation with Brian Mazique, Wilder opened up about the toughest challenge of his career.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t Tyson Fury, with whom he went through a grueling three-fight saga that spanned 30 punishing rounds. Instead, Wilder gave that honor to Luis “King Kong” Ortiz. 'The best fighter I have fought goes by the name of King Kong Luis Ortiz,' Wilder explained. 'I say that because of the mathematics that was going on in my head—one of the best Cuban southpaws in the business, people were ducking him.'

Wilder also revealed a personal connection that extended beyond the ring. He expressed gratitude for making Ortiz a millionaire, noting the pride he felt in helping Ortiz provide for his family. Both fighters share the struggle of caring for children with serious medical conditions, creating a bond that adds depth to their rivalry.

For many fans, Wilder’s choice may come as a shock. The Fury trilogy remains one of the defining rivalries in modern boxing, but Wilder’s respect for Ortiz underscores the Cuban’s unique blend of skill, danger, and legacy. As Wilder looks ahead to his next chapter, his reflections on the past provide fresh insight into what shaped his journey.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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