"Never speak like that". De La Hoya touchingly defended Wilder

Prominent promoter Oscar De La Hoya has shown support for Deontay Wilder following his defeat to Zhang Zhilei.

De La Hoya criticized those advising the "Bronze Bomber" to retire from professional boxing.

"Never tell a fighter that he needs to retire. It's a personal decision that only the fighter should make because it's our livelihood, our love, our passion.

Deontay, keep moving forward, man, whatever you do, whatever you decide. Don’t make any hasty decisions; go on vacation and take your beautiful family with you. When you come back and calmly decide, in your heart, you’ll make the right decision. This is a deeply personal choice, this is life. So, take your time, brother. We love you, and it's been thrilling to watch you all these years," FightHype.com quotes Oscar.

On June 1st, the "Bronze Bomber" decisively lost to Zhang Zhilei. The Chinese boxer secured a confident victory over the American by knockout in the fifth round. Overall, Wilder has lost 4 of his last 5 fights.

Promoter Frank Warren said after Deontay's defeat that he should have ended his career after his second loss to Fury.