Adesanya loses $25k after Deontay Wilder gets KO-ed and his head bounces off the canvas

Adam Miller

In a much-anticipated return to the ring, Deontay Wilder aimed to rebound from his underwhelming performance against Joseph Parker last December. Squaring off against former WBO interim heavyweight champion Zhilei Zhang, the stage was set for an electrifying main event at 5v5: Queensbury vs. Matchroom in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

With 63 combined knockouts out of 69 career victories, both boxing stars promised a night of high-octane action.

Both boxers are known for their knockout power, which led many to expect a brutal slugfest. Surprisingly, the early rounds saw both boxers exercising caution as each respected the other’s formidable strength.

Wilder began the match in dominant fashion, winning most exchanges in the opening round. However, Zhang quickly adapted and took control. The match’s turning point came when Zhang landed a right hook that spun Wilder around. Sensing an opportunity, Zhang closed the distance and delivered another powerful right hook, sending Wilder to the canvas.

Wilder managed to get back on his feet to beat the 10-count. However, his unsteady legs led the referee to stop the match, declaring Zhang the winner by TKO.

Along with Wilder, it seems like UFC star Israel Adesanya paid the price. He had placed a $10,000 bet on Wilder to win by knockout, with a potential payout of $26,500.

Adesanya posted about the bet on the social media.

Unfortunately for Adesanya, Wilder succumbed to a fifth-round TKO against Zhang, the Chinese heavyweight sensation.

This loss marks Wilder’s fourth defeat in his last five matches, bringing his professional record to 43-4-1. Conversely, Zhang’s victory improved his record to 27-2-1, positioning him closer to a potential title shot.

Meanwhile, Israel Adesanya has remained inactive in the octagon since losing his middleweight title to Sean Strickland at UFC 293. Although Adesanya hinted at taking an extended break from the sport until 2027, rumors suggest a possible matchup against champion Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305.

Adam Miller

Adam Miller is a talented writer with a passion for the UFC. As a UFC writer for Calfkicker, he's found a way to combine his love for the sport with his gift for words. With a diploma in journalism and mass communication, Adam has a deep understanding of how to craft compelling content that resonates with readers.

Before finding his niche in the world of UFC writing, Adam worked as a freelance link builder and content writer. His diverse range of clients and businesses allowed him to hone his craft and develop a unique perspective that sets him apart from other writers in the field.