THERE were boisterous scenes in Batley when WBC World Heavyweight boxing champion Deontay Wilder made an appearance to open Mr T’s restaurant on Thursday.

And the man of the moment, who goes by the Twitter and Instagram handle @BronzeBomber, seemed very impressed with his welcome by posting on Twitter: “Batley is lit right now... thanks to all my UK fans for the continuous love you give. What an amazing time, every damn time. From start literally to finish you guys don’t stop.”

PICTURES AND VIDEO: World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder drops in to Bradford and Batley

Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin grabbed a selfie with the world champion, tweeting: “Had an amazing time at the grand opening of Mr T’s restaurant in Batley, with special guest and heavyweight boxing champion of the world Deontay Wilder. It’s amazing to see so many businesses choosing Batley to be their home, and for us to welcome a world class athlete.”

Wilder first stopped off for a facial at Prity, a salon in Leagrams Lane, to try a new men’s service.

“I’m sure it was more relaxing than being in the ring and getting knocked about,” said Fatima Patel.

The American was greeted by hundreds of fans outside Mr T's restaurant in Station Road on Thursday evening, taking selfies, signing autographs and screaming his 'Bomb Squad' catchphrase.

And the unbeaten Wilder, who has won 41 fights and drawn one, used the opportunity to send a message to his rivals.

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During his visit, Wilder promised to knock out Luis Ortiz and Tyson Fury.

Wilder is expected to fight Ortiz, who he knocked out in March last year, before a rematch with Fury following their controversial draw in December.

"Ortiz is definitely happening," he told the BBC.

"I am looking forward to fighting him. After I knock him out I will go to Fury, knock him out and then we will go for a unification.

"It has been amazing watching all the fighters. Moments where it has been memorable and history has been made, and upsets too - the sport has blossomed.

"As a champion, sitting back watching it has been amazing to see what is going on and the dynamics.

"Once I get rid of Ortiz, I will get rid of Fury too. We will figure it out but Ortiz comes first."

Wilder has been long linked with a fight with Anthony Joshua, who is set to face Andy Ruiz Jr in a rematch in Saudi Arabia later this year after the Mexican produced one of the biggest upsets in boxing history in June.

Wilder cannot see past another victory for Ruiz Jr.

He added: "Ruiz (wins) in my opinion. I feel Joshua does not know how he lost, and that means he will not know how to set up a proper training camp - but anything is possible.

"Boxing is an amazing sport and you just do not know what is going to happen. That is why I love it."