Deontay Wilder has finally congratulated Tyson Fury on his thrilling victory in their trilogy fight last Saturday after refusing to shake hands with the WBC champ and saying he did not respect him.
The two heavyweights went toe-to-toe in an incredible bout in Las Vegas as Fury survived two knockdowns in the fourth round to finally KO his American opponent with a brutal series of punches in the 11th round.
After the fight, the Gypsy King went over to Wilder’s corner to shake hands and congratulate him on a brave performance, but the 35-year-old snubbed the Brit, saying: “I don’t respect you, bro.”
His manager, Shelly Finkel, later claimed Wilder regretted his reaction after the fight, insisting his “mind wasn’t really there”, and now the Bronze Bomber has at last praised Fury and applauded his victory.
Writing on Instagram on Thursday, Wilder said: “Wow, what a hell of a night!
“I would like to first and foremost thank God for allowing me to give the world another part of me that’s driven with passion and determination.
“I would like to thank my team and my fans for sticking by my side through this long process.
“I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t disappointed in the outcome but after reflecting on my journey, I now see that what God wanted me to experience is far greater than what I expected to happen.
“We didn’t get the win but a wise man once said the victories are within the lessons. I’ve learned that sometimes you have to lose to win.
“Although, I wanted the win I enjoyed seeing the fans win even more. Hopefully, I proved that I am a true Warrior and a true King in this sport.
“Hopefully, WE proved that no matter how hard you get hit with trials and tribulations you can always pick yourself up to live and fight again for what you believe in.
“Last but not least I would like to congratulate [Tyson Fury] for his victory and thank you for the great historical memories that will last forever.”
Fury had been furious with Wilder’s reaction after the fight, branding him a “sore loser”, and felt his lack of respect undermined the bravery and courage he had shown in the ring.
Speaking after the handshake snub, Fury said at his post-fight press conference: “I went over and said well done and he said he didn’t want to show any sportsmanship or respect. Very surprised by that. He’s an idiot.
“Sore loser. To be a top fighting man you need to show guts and respect and he didn’t do that tonight. He couldn’t do it.
