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Wilder Denies Assault Lawsuit

BBC Sport •
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Former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder strongly denies allegations he physically assaulted Kerron Swift, the son of his ex-fiancee, according to his lawyer. Wilder's legal team confirmed a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles claims battery, assault, emotional distress, and false imprisonment between 2016-2024 when Swift was a minor. The allegations represent a serious challenge to the boxer's reputation.

Wilder's attorney Paul Patterson dismissed the accusations as "riddled with complete and utter fabrications," insisting his client "never physically disciplined any child." The timing of the lawsuit raised eyebrows as it followed Wilder's recent split-decision victory over Derek Chisora at London's O2 Arena, improving his record to 45-4-1 after losing four of his previous six bouts in a challenging period.

The law firm representing Swift rejected claims this was a publicity stunt, stating they "filed this action quietly and without a press release." Patterson characterized the lawsuit timing as a "classic smear campaign" to distract from Wilder's boxing comeback, while the former champion continues his return to form in the competitive heavyweight division.