NORTHPORT, Ala. – Minutes after completing an hour-long workout, Deontay Wilder settles into a comfortable position on a ring apron and waves a reporter over. As star athletes go, Wilder is accessible as it gets. The WBC heavyweight champion regularly invites writers into his Alabama gym. He makes the New York and LA media rounds. He calls reporters back from vacation. “I’m a people person,” Wilder said. In his early 20’s, Wilder worked at a nearby IHOP. Connecting with customers usually correlated to bigger tips, so Wilder made a point to engage with them. In the 6’7” Wilder, patrons saw an athlete and eagerly engaged Wilder on anything from Alabama football to the latest NBA storyline.
Deontay Wilder Has the Money, Power, Now He Wants Your Respect
