2:30 PM PT -- Deontay Wilder says the costume he wore to the ring Saturday night -- which weighed 45 pounds -- weakened his legs during the fight, per The Athletic's Lance Pugmire.
Wilder also says he is exercising the rematch clause in his contract ... and is hoping for a 3rd fight with Fury this summer.
Prior to the fight, DW told us his ring walk costume cost his $40,000.
Deontay Wilder wants ONE MORE SHOT at Tyson Fury ... so says his fiancee, Telli Swift, who's vowing the Bronze Bomber will be champion again.
Of course, 34-year-old Wilder lost the WBC heavyweight title to the Gypsy King on Saturday in a 7th round TKO. It was the first loss of Wilder's pro career.
Wilder has a rematch clause in his contract and everyone wants to know if Deontay will exercise it.
Now, some clarity courtesy of Deontay's fiancee -- who posted on Monday morning, "#WilderFury3 here we come!!"
Telli Swift buried the statement at the bottom of a long Instagram post praising Wilder -- in which she explains why she's confident he'll return to the top of the boxing world.
"Deontay, you showed us what Strength, Passion, and Courage looks like. You showed the world what it takes to Be A Champion."
"Most people have no idea just how hard you train, the blood, sweat, and tears you put into this sport for other people’s entertainment ... One moment in time does not define your legacy, your legacy is created throughout time and we will continue to do just that."
Swift ended her tribute saying "Continue to give god the glory so we can get back our belt! #WilderFury3 here we come!! #thesagacontinues #stillourchamp #bombzquad."
And, get this ... BEFORE the fight, we asked Tyson Fury how he felt about a 3rd bout with Wilder -- and the comments he gave us are encouraging if you're hoping for a trilogy.
Originally Published -- 12:21 PM PT