BLK Prime Boxing brought the heavyweights back to center stage on Friday, June 27, with an explosive showdown between former world champion Deontay Wilder and durable journeyman Kertson “Iron Jaw” Herndon. Broadcasted live and attended by a packed crowd, the fight delivered power, spectacle, and a reminder of Wilder’s dangerous presence in the heavyweight division.
BLK Prime Boxing
Watch Now: Online Full Fight
Date/Time: Friday 06.27.2025 at 08:00 PM ET
U.S. Broadcast: Internet PPV
Promotion: BLK Prime Boxing
Co-Promoter: Global Combat Collective
Venue: Charles Koch Arena
Location: Wichita, Kansas
Enclosure: Ring
Matchmaker: Eric Bottjer, Nelson Lopez Jr
Boxing Bouts: 13
🥊 Pre-Fight Hype: Bomb Squad Returns
Deontay Wilder (43-3-1, 42 KOs), known worldwide as the “Bronze Bomber,” entered this fight looking to bounce back after a layoff and recent losses at the elite level. Once the WBC heavyweight champion, Wilder is renowned for his one-punch knockout power — and fans were eager to see if he still possessed that same finishing threat.
Kertson Herndon (20-17-1, 10 KOs) came in as a veteran gatekeeper, known for his toughness and willingness to take on anyone, anywhere. While not expected to win, Herndon promised to test Wilder’s timing and durability in a stay-busy fight.
The matchup was viewed as a tune-up for Wilder — but in boxing, nothing is guaranteed when heavyweights trade leather.
🔔 Round-by-Round Highlights
Round 1:
Wilder began cautiously, circling on the outside and using his long jab to measure distance. Herndon stayed tucked behind a high guard, absorbing early shots. In the final 30 seconds, Wilder uncorked a straight right that staggered Herndon, signaling things to come.
Round 2:
Wilder loosened up, landing heavy body shots and mixing in feints. Herndon tried to respond with counters but was too slow to catch Wilder’s timing. A right hand to the temple wobbled Herndon again.
Round 3:
The pace quickened. Wilder trapped Herndon on the ropes and unleashed a flurry of power punches. A thunderous right hook dropped Herndon hard. He rose at the count of eight but looked shaky.
Round 4:
Herndon came out trying to hold, but Wilder stayed composed. A brutal overhand right sent Herndon to the canvas again — this time for good. The referee waved it off at 1:17 of Round 4, giving Wilder the knockout victory.
🏁 Final Decision: Wilder Wins by KO in Round 4
Deontay Wilder scored his 43rd career knockout in emphatic fashion, stopping Kertson Herndon at 1:17 of the fourth round. The performance reminded fans why Wilder remains one of the most dangerous punchers in boxing history.
📊 Fighter Stats and Punch Breakdown
| Category | Deontay Wilder | Kertson Herndon |
|---|---|---|
| Total Punches Landed | 89 | 34 |
| Jabs Landed | 26 | 12 |
| Power Punches Landed | 63 | 22 |
| Knockdowns | 2 | 0 |
| Accuracy | 41% | 22% |
Wilder dominated from the outset, landing nearly triple the punches and connecting with devastating force. Herndon showed toughness but had no answer for Wilder’s power.
🎤 Post-Fight Interviews and Reactions
Deontay Wilder (Post-fight):
“I feel great. This was about shaking off the rust and reminding the world I’m still here. I want the biggest fights — AJ, Usyk, Ruiz. I’m back, and I’m dangerous.”
Kertson Herndon:
“He hits harder than anyone I’ve fought. I tried to hang in, but he’s got serious firepower. Respect to Wilder.”
Wilder’s trainer also commented:
“The goal was clean execution, and we got that. Deontay was patient, smart, and lethal. The next fight will be a major step up.”
📈 What This Fight Means for the Heavyweight Division
Wilder’s return to the win column sends a strong message to the rest of the division. After back-to-back losses to Tyson Fury, questions loomed about his future. But with this KO win, Wilder proves he still possesses the explosiveness that makes him a nightmare matchup for anyone.
While Herndon wasn’t a top-ranked opponent, the performance showed improvements in Wilder’s timing, patience, and shot selection — all signs he’s refining his approach for a final title run.
👀 Upcoming Fight Implications
Deontay Wilder:
All eyes are now on who Wilder will face next. Potential options include:
- Anthony Joshua (massive money fight, fan demand)
- Andy Ruiz Jr. (eliminator potential)
- Zhilei Zhang or Filip Hrgović (title contention bouts)
- A rematch with Joseph Parker also remains on the radar
Expect a major fight announcement before year’s end.
Kertson Herndon:
Herndon will likely return to the journeyman circuit, continuing to test rising prospects. His durability and experience ensure he’ll stay active on regional cards.
📝 Final Thoughts
Wilder vs Herndon may not have been a championship-level contest, but it was exactly what Deontay Wilder needed — a decisive, highlight-reel KO to reassert himself in a wide-open heavyweight picture.
The “Bronze Bomber” is back in the mix, and with his legendary knockout power still intact, the division remains on high alert.
For more boxing recaps, breaking news, and fighter rankings, stay tuned to DailyProjonmo.com — your ringside seat to the fight game.
