WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has claimed that he can replace Floyd Mayweather Jr as the new face of boxing.

Mayweather is expected to bring his career to an end after fighting in Las Vegas in September, and Wilder believes that he can attract attention in the same way his fellow American has managed to do throughout his career.

The 29-year-old insists that the heavyweight division can also become more popular during his reign as champion as he looks to add to the belt he won against Bermane Stiverne in January.

"Floyd Mayweather seems to be coming to the end. Boxing needs me to take over. I believe I can be the exciting new face," Wilder told reporters.

"There is nothing better than the heavyweights to keep the boom going. The fans love the big men. Historically ours is the sport's marquee division and it's great for the game that it is coming back to life.

"It's also time to bring back the undisputed heavyweight championship to America, where it belongs."

Wilder will defend his title against Eric Molina in Alabama on Saturday night.