Wednesday 28 December 2016 16:34, UK
Deontay Wilder will next defend his world heavyweight championship against Andrzej Wawrzyk, it has been confirmed.
WBC title-holder Wilder will put his belt on the line for the fifth time against Poland's Wawryzk (33-1), a former world title challenger, in his home state of Alabama on February 25.
The unbeaten Wilder has recovered from a broken hand sustained in his last fight against Chris Arreola and facing Wawrzyk, who unsuccessfully challenged Alexander Povetkin for the WBA 'regular' belt three years ago, represents the first step towards his goal of unifying the heavyweight division.
Wilder exclusively told Sky Sports about fellow world champion Anthony Joshua: "Everyone wants to see him fight the man. And I am the man. No matter what people say, I am the man, especially in America.
"[Joshua vs Eric Molina] will get a few more Americans on tune with who Joshua is.
"2017 will be a beautiful year. Our goal is to unify the division so we need others that want to put their title on the line.
If you're at the top, no matter who you are - especially if you're a belt-holder - we want you.
"2017 is all about risk-taking and I think it's going to happen. There's so much going on with belts and sanctions but, if I have my pick, I want to come back with a bang and unify the division with somebody.
"If you're at the top, no matter who you are - especially if you're a belt-holder - we want you."
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