TYSON FURY sent Deontay Wilder a classy ‘happy birthday’ message as he thanked his ‘awesome’ ex-opponent for their epic trilogy series.
Wilder turned 36 almost two weeks after his thrilling third fight with Fury, which ended after 11 gruelling rounds in Las Vegas.
The Gypsy King was quick to wish him all the best in an online video message, where a black eye from the thrilling trilogy bout was on show.
Fury, 33, said: “This is Tyson Fury, AKA The Gypsy King. This is a very special happy birthday message to my old mate, Deontay ‘The Bronze Bomber’ Wilder.
“Have a fantastic day, Wilder. Thank you for the great fights we’ve had and the trilogy, and you’re a great, great fighter, an awesome fighter.
“I hope you have a fantastic day with you and your family. I hope God blesses you abundantly.
“All the best, lots of love from your old pal, ‘The Gypsy King.’ All the best, God bless, Wilder.”
Fury first drew with Wilder in 2018, largely outboxing the American over 12 rounds but was twice dropped.
In their rematch 14 months on, he then brilliantly won in seven one-sided rounds in a fight that included a contracted trilogy bout.
But it took an arbitration case for Wilder to get the fight, as Fury attempted to instead face Anthony Joshua, 32, in a unification.
And boxing fans can be thankful the judge ruled in favour of the Bronze Bomber after what played out this month.
Wilder was three times floored, dropping Fury twice in round four himself, before finally being knocked out.
Initially, he refused to embrace his rival, and even claimed to have ‘no love’ or ‘respect’ for the WBC champion.
But after some reflection time, Wilder congratulated Fury in a heartfelt message on Instagram.
He wrote: “I’ve learned that sometimes you have to lose to win. Although, I wanted the win I enjoyed seeing the fans win even more.
“Hopefully, I proved that I am a true Warrior and a true King in this sport.
“Hopefully, WE proved that no matter how hard you get hit with trials and tribulations you can always pick yourself up to live and fight again for what you believe in.
“Last but not least I would like to congratulate @gypsyking101 for his victory and thank you for the great historical memories that will last forever.”
