Hundreds Gather in Tuscaloosa for Deontay Wilder’s World Championship Send-off Party!

A large group of supporters gathered Thursday night at Tuscaloosa's Rivermarket to cheer on Deontay Wilder! It was a lively send-off party for the Bronze Bomber as he prepares for his biggest fight to date!

Next Saturday (January 17th) Deontay and his undefeated record will be in Las Vegas to take on Bermane Stiverne. On the line, oh just the world heavy weight championship of the WORLD!! We're taking the title held by boxing legends like Muhammad Ali, Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson. Here's an interesting note, there hasn't been an American champ since 2006. Deontay from Tuscaloosa is ready to take that honor.

If you haven't realized, something really big is on the horizon for a local guy. Deontay has been on the world boxing stage since being the only American boxer to win a medal at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008, when he took home the bronze. The ultimate prize awaits, the world heavyweight championship. The City of Tuscaloosa recognized this by coordinating the lively event. Plus, Mayor Maddox awarded the boxer with the day of the big fight, January 17th, as Deontay Wilder day in Tuscaloosa.

Senator Allen who played a big role in establishing the boxing commission in the state also shared comments of support at the event. Plus, the Bronze Bomber's dad, Rev. Wilder shared funny stories of the boxer growing up and had the crowd roaring on his feet when he said, "go get him, Deontay!"

Check out a few photos from the night below.

The pay-per-view will be shown on Showtime at 9pm next Saturday. See the bout preview below.