Deontay Wilder has finally praised Tyson Fury for his brilliant win in their trilogy fight last weekend.
Fury called the American an "idiot" and a "sore loser" when he was snubbed by his great rival in the aftermath of the Las Vegas thriller.
Wilder went quiet after losing via an 11th-round knockout as he began his recovery from a broken hand with question marks over where his boxing career goes next.
But the Bronze Bomber finally broke his silence with a classy message on Instagram on Friday morning (AEDT), thanking his team, fans and Fury for "memories that will last forever".
Wilder posted a picture in his red gown ahead of the showdown and wrote: "Wow, what a hell of a night!
"I would like to first and foremost thank God for allowing me to give the world another part of me that's driven with passion and determination.
"I would like to thank my team and my fans for sticking by my side through this long process.
Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury during their WBC/Lineal heavyweight championship boxing match. Photo / Photosport
"I would be lying if I said that I wasn't disappointed in the outcome but after reflecting on my journey, I now see that what God wanted me to experience is far greater than what I expected to happen.
"We didn't get the win but a wise man once said the victories are within the lessons. 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."
Wilder's response to what many in boxing called one of the greatest fights of all time came as fresh footage was released of his post-fight snub of Fury.
In the clip, released by Top Rank Boxing, Wilder can be heard saying "I don't respect you" as Fury tells his rival he's "never cheated in my life" and Wilder lost "fair and square".
Wilder had restored much of his reputation as he floored Fury twice before succumbing late in Sunday's instant classic, after accusing his rival of cheating his way to a win their rematch in February 2020.
But the battered and bruised American appeared to blow his chance to turn the iconic rivalry into a fantastic fighting friendship with his conduct in the ring afterwards as Fury hit out at him for not congratulating his conqueror.
But Wilder's co-manager Shelly Finkel insisted the ex-champion does respect Fury and would be open to accepting the peace offering now.
Finkel told The Sun: "Him (Wilder) and I have spoke about that and he does (respect Fury).
"I think his mind wasn't really there, I think if Deontay saw Fury now he would give him a big embrace."
There were fears Wilder would retire from boxing after the savage battle, where he suffered numerous injuries, including the fractured hand, knuckle and finger which will be operated on next week.
But Finkel has confirmed the 35-year-old will be back next in late April or May ā and is eyeing Anthony Joshua next.
Wilder has been denied a quick ring return after receiving a six-month, injury-enforced ban by medics.
