Derek Chisora Plans December Fight After Reversing Retirement Decision
Derek Chisora Confirms Return to the Ring in December
Despite his previous bout being promoted as his retirement fight, Derek Chisora has announced he will compete again this December. The 42-year-old British boxer, who debuted professionally in 2007, lost to Deontay Wilder in April during what was called his 50th and final match.
Chisora Targets Bout Against Murat Gassiev
During a recent press conference, Chisora revealed plans to face Murat Gassiev later this year. "December will be me versus Gassiev," he said. The location is yet to be decided, with London or Manchester under consideration. He also mentioned that two titles could be on the line: the IBA belt and the one held by Gassiev.
Chisora praised the International Boxing Association (IBA), stating, "What the IBA does is unbelievable. I believe this goes deeper than just this fight. It’s only going to improve. In December, we’ll be fighting."
Gassiev's Championship Status Remains Unclear
Murat Gassiev currently holds the WBA super heavyweight world champion title, but uncertainty surrounds his status following reports of a scheduled fight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua on December 11, which may involve the same belt. Gassiev himself expressed doubt about retaining the WBA championship at a recent event.
The upcoming fight announcement came during an IBA-hosted event. The IBA lost its amateur boxing governing body recognition from the International Olympic Committee in 2023 and has since been organizing professional matches. Gassiev’s recent fights have been under the IBA banner, and he was named the WBA super champion in June after Oleksandr Usyk gave up the title.
Chisora Defends Decision to Continue Fighting
Despite many considering his age and previous farewells, Chisora remains determined. With a record of 36 wins in 50 fights, he dismissed retirement rumors, saying, "I never said I was retired. They [the promoters] called it my ‘50th last dance.’” He likened his situation to sequels in popular films, joking, "This is why you have Rush Hour 1, Rush Hour 2, Coming to America 1, Coming to America 2. This is Last Dance 3. Trust me, I’m a seller. That’s my job."
