😱MASS CONFUSION! DEONTAY WILDER IS STILL MUST-SEE TV! OPETAIA, RICO VERHOEVEN OR BILLAM-SMITH?!

Deontay Wilder could be heading back to the ring on the undercard of Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury on Netflix—but who is he actually fighting? First, Jai Opetaia was linked to a potential showdown with the former heavyweight champion. Now, kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven says he accepted an offer to fight Wilder, although the details still need to be finalized. Meanwhile, Chris Billam-Smith has said he would be willing to step in if Opetaia cannot take the fight, despite having his own bout against Cheavon Clarke scheduled for November 7. In this video, we break down the opponent confusion, why each potential matchup would create a different storyline, and why Wilder’s name still carries significant promotional value. Is Wilder still must-see television? Could his power and name recognition help strengthen the Fury–Joshua undercard? And are these competing reports a sign of a major fight taking shape—or simply negotiations that have not been finalized? *Important:* As of October 15, 2026, Wilder’s opponent has not been officially confirmed. We distinguish reported discussions from confirmed fight announcements. Join the conversation: Who should Deontay Wilder fight: Jai Opetaia, Rico Verhoeven, or Chris Billam-Smith? Which matchup would you most want to watch? Does Wilder still belong among boxing’s biggest attractions? Like the video, subscribe, and join the boxing conversation with Hood Champion Boxing and Sports. *DON’T TAKE IT TO THE STUPID.*