The former world heavyweight champion will return to the ring against Zhilei Zhang on June 1 in Saudi Arabia and explained that he has got his hunger back after a tricky period both inside and outside of the sport.

Wilder told reporters: "Here I am, I’m not playing around this time. I feel like I’ve got nothing to lose this time, only to gain.

"I mean business, I can feel the desire and sensation in my heart is coming back. You’ll see what I’m talking about."

The American boxer has teamed up with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom stable for the clash and says it is the "ultimate surprise" to be working with a promoter he has often locked horns with.

He said: "I feel good. No one thought me and Eddie would work together, so this is the ultimate surprise right here."

Wilder considers the fight with Zhang to be defining for his career and describes the clash as his "last stand" in the ring.

He said: "I respect Zhang, he’s a good fighter, but it’s my time.

"I’m breaking it down and come the night of the fight we will see if I’ve still got it or not. I’m seeing this as my last stand."

Wilder was beaten by Joseph Parker in his most recent bout last December and suggested that his lack of "killer instinct" was to blame for the defeat.

He said: "I’ve got to find my killer instinct back. I’m too at peace, I’m too happy. When I had that dog in me, nobody had a chance."