By Edward Chaykovsky
According to heavyweight banger Deontay Wilder (31-0, 31KOs), he had resistance when he requested a stay busy fight on Saturday night at the StubHub Center in Carson, California. Wilder will take on journeyman Jason Gavern (25-16-4, 11KOs).
Wilder's management would have preferred he sit out, because the undefeated puncher is the mandatory challenger to WBC heavyweight champion Bermane Stiverne, and their title fight is being discussed for a date in November or December.
"My management didn't want me to take this fight, I was the one who wanted to take it. This fight is giving me the opportunity to fight for a world title for my next fight. I know that I must stay active and I know that my opponent is a tough guy who will come and try to win. You can't go off of his record, you just never know how he will come out on this night. I don't want him to feel comfortable. I want to get in and get out," Wilder said.
Because of the danger involved with facing Gavern - like breaking a hand or suffering a cut or even an upset loss, Wilder is taking the fight very, very seriously.
"In facing my opponent, all I would like to say is that we are in the heavyweight division so one punch could end the fight. I am not looking past him, I am only looking through him. My prize is to fight for the world title and in order to be able to do that I must get through my opponent on Saturday," Wilder said.
"I know that I have a big bull's eye on my back and that if I beat my opponent then I will be in the running for the world title come November."
