Deontay Wilder admitted that he does know much about his upcoming opponent, but he’s not about to take Eric Molina, a former NABF heavyweight champion, lightly heading into their June 13 clash.
Wilder, the WBC heavyweight champion, makes his first title defense at UAB’s Bartow Arena in Bimingham, Alabama, approximately an hour from his hometown of Tuscaloosa. Wilder took part in a workout Thursday that was open to reporters at his gym.
“The only thing I know about Molina, he’s tall,” Wilder said. “He’s 6’5, I think, maybe about 250, something like that. He’s got a nice record. I think he’s like 23-2 – I think. I hear he ha a nice punch as well. That’s about all I know about him. I don’t study tape or film. I don’t believe personally in it. I let my trainers break down film and tape from him because I know once I fight him; he’s going to have a different angle of attack towards me when I get in the ring.
Wilder began his professional career with 32 consecutive knockouts before claiming the WBC title with a dominating unanimous decision victory over former champion Bermane Stiverne on Jan. 17.
Molina, who stands at 6’4, has been knocked out in the first round in both of his losses, and Wilder has 18 knockouts within the first round. Wilder is still not taking Molina or any future opponent lightly.
“Every guy you have to be careful of in the heavyweight division because this division is based on power,” Wilder said. “Some may have it, some may not. But, this is the heavyweight division, so everybody that gets in the ring is dangerous. You’ve got to respect that, and you’ve got to approach that accordingly.
“I don’t take nobody lightly. I don’t play around with this.”
