Deontay Wilder rises to fourth in WBC heavyweight rankings

Deontay Wilder has risen from eighth to fourth in the World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight rankings without competing. This shift places the former champion closer to a potential title shot against Agit Kabayel, who was elevated to WBC heavyweight champion following Oleksandr Usyk's decision to vacate his belts.

Wilder's ascent is attributed to a reshuffle in the division, including the removal of fighters such as Moses Itauma, Filip Hrgovic, Lawrence Okolie, and Fabio Wardley from the rankings. While a bout between Wilder and Usyk is being discussed for March 2027, potentially in Las Vegas, the current ranking movement opens a path for Wilder to pursue the WBC title through Kabayel in the interim.

Usyk remains interested in a confrontation with Wilder, though the Ukrainian fighter is currently focusing on future career plans after relinquishing his organizational championships.