Joshua Edwards has no interest in becoming the next Deontay Wilder, even if World Boxing News played a part in pushing that comparison early in his professional career.
The unbeaten American heavyweight returns on June 20 at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California, on the Oscar Collazo vs Joey Canoy card.
Another victory would continue a rise that has already put Edwards on the radar as one of America’s most promising young heavyweights.
He just does not want to get there wearing somebody else’s label.
Not the Next Wilder
Edwards has drawn Wilder comparisons since turning professional, mainly because of his amateur background, early knockouts and status as an American heavyweight signed by Golden Boy.
WBN was among those to use the phrase after Edwards moved to 2-0 with a first-round knockout in 2025, when the search for a new Wilder figure in the division was already gathering pace.
Edwards understands why the comparison exists, but he still does not like it.
“I honestly hate the comparisons,” Edwards told World Boxing News. “I’m more of a boxer first rather than a puncher, with all respect to Wilder.”
His Own Man
Wilder became one of the most destructive heavyweight punchers of his generation, built around a right hand that changed fights in an instant.
“It’s all good. It’s a compliment to me,” Edwards said before WBN promsed to eradicate the comparison. “I just want to be my own fighter. The comparisons are natural.”
Edwards also made it clear he has no issue with Wilder’s achievements.
“Long ways out,” he added. “Wilder is a legend in the sport.”
American Heavyweights Rising
American heavyweight boxing has been searching for its next major force since Wilder’s reign ended. Edwards believes the next generation is moving in the right direction and recently told WBN that American heavyweights are rising again.
His June 20 return gives him another chance to prove it as Golden Boy continues to build him carefully, allowing him to gain rounds, build experience and keep developing without rushing him toward names above his current level.
That approach appears to suit him.
Edwards wants to help revive American heavyweight boxing when he is ready, not because he has been told to follow Wilder’s route.
The comparison helped introduce him, but building his own name is what comes next.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
