Let’s face it, there hasn’t been much to cheer about in recent times when it comes to American heavyweights. Deontay Wilder gives the U.S. hope.

Wilder, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., is 27. He is 6-foot-7 and is 28-0 with 28 knockouts. That is not a misprint. He has knocked out everyone he has fought, including 16 in the first round. Wilder stopped Audley Harrison in the first round in his most recent start in April. Not that Harrison is all that, but when a guy has knocked out 28 consecutive opponents, he’s worth a long look.

Wilder on Friday will take on former champion Sergei Liakhovich (25-5, 16 KOs) of Belarus in the main event at Fantasy Springs Casino (on Showtime).

Wilder is nicknamed “The Bronze Bomber.” He is ranked in the top 10 by two of the four major governing bodies.