Thursday 25 June 2015 14:35, UK
Unbeaten Australian Lucas Browne - promoted by Ricky Hatton - has called out WBC world heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.
The 36-year-old (22-0-0-KO19) had been tipped to face British heavyweight sensation Anthony Joshua later in the year but appears to have his sights set on Wilder, who made the first defence of his title by stopping Eric Molina in the ninth round on June 13.
Browne said: "I saw Deontay’s video and wasn’t really impressed. Deontay says ‘I don’t believe in myself’. Anyone who knows me, knows that could not be further from the truth. I believe I’m the hardest hitting heavyweight in the world. There’s no doubt in my mind of that.
"He said he hopes I continue to climb the rankings… well I’m already ranked above his last opponent, Eric Molina, who would be lucky to last three rounds with me. He gave Wilder a tough fight.
"I’m happy to fight Deontay Wilder anywhere in the world. Las Vegas, New York, his backyard. Wherever. It’s a fight that would be explosive and that is what fight fans want to see in heavyweight boxing.
I’m happy to fight Deontay Wilder anywhere in the world. Las Vegas, New York, his backyard.
“Wilder said I might be his next opponent. Well it would be an honour to challenge for the heavyweight championship of the world. Have his team contact Hatton Promotions and we can give the fans what they want to see… an explosive fight.”
Browne's manager Matt Clark echoed the challenge, adding: "If Wilder’s team can send us a contract we will have it back to them signed, sealed and delivered, immediately.
"You’ve got two brutal sluggers with dynamite in each fist. It’s a fight that the world would love to see. The difference is Lucas Browne has a great chin to match his concussive power.
“If the version of Deontay Wilder that fought Eric Molina shows up against Lucas Browne, he’s getting knocked out and Australia has its first ever world heavyweight champion.
"Big Daddy” Browne fears no man on this planet. Let’s make this fight a reality.”
