Wilder, Hernandez, and Nicholson Light Up Wichita Ahead of Fight Night
- Dante
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
In a gym buzzing with energy and tension, four fighters stepped into the spotlight this week at Wichita’s Charles Koch Arena, offering a preview of what promises to be an electrifying night of boxing on June 27. Former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, rising star Nico Hernandez, and knockout artist Deon Nicholson all participated in an open media workout, drawing fans, cameras, and plenty of speculation. For each fighter, this wasn’t just training—it was a statement. Wilder (43-4-1, 42 KOs), once feared as one of the hardest punchers in boxing history, is calling this bout against Tyrrell Herndon a “reset,” not a comeback. “This is part one of a three-fight plan,” Wilder said, referring to a 2025 campaign he hopes will end in another title shot. Sporting a lean, shredded physique and a focused demeanor, the Alabama native looked sharp on the pads, cracking leather with trademark power. More importantly, Wilder says he feels mentally and physically healed, especially from lingering shoulder issues that haunted him in recent years.
His opponent, Herndon (24-5, 15 KOs), isn’t here to play a supporting role. Riding a three-fight win streak and fresh off a hard-fought victory last May, Herndon showed up to the workout with crisp combinations and confidence. “This is the moment I’ve trained for. I’m not here to survive—I’m here to win,” he said. Though he enters as the underdog, Herndon’s footwork and timing on the mitts suggest Wilder may have more to deal with than expected. Hometown hero Nico Hernandez (11-0), an Olympic bronze medalist and undefeated pro, also returned to action this week, drawing loud cheers during his pad session. Friday will mark Hernandez’s first pro fight in Wichita since 2022, and he’s treating it as a career milestone. “This is the biggest opportunity of my career,” Hernandez said, promising fans a fast-paced, aggressive showing. With a clean record and growing local support, Hernandez is poised to make a leap into national recognition.
The co-main event features Deon “The Equalizer” Nicholson (21-1, 17 KOs), who looked every bit the part of a wrecking machine. Nicholson didn’t reveal his opponent, but made his intentions clear: “It’s time to hurt someone.” Known for his punching power and intensity, Nicholson has the tools—and the platform—to make a major statement on Friday night.
This event marks Wilder’s first major public workout since his February trilogy bout with Tyson Fury. His team was adamant: this isn’t nostalgia. It’s a mission. With the Charles Koch Arena set to host thousands of fans, and four hungry fighters ready to make headlines, Wichita is about to witness a night that could shift the boxing landscape for all involved.
