Derek Chisora has announced that he is not retiring and plans to return to the ring in December. The 42-year-old British boxer suffered a defeat against Deontay Wilder in April, a fight that was promoted as his 50th and final match. However, Chisora has since declined to confirm his retirement. At a press conference on Tuesday, he revealed plans to face Murat Gassiev in December.
“December will be me versus Gassiev,” Chisora stated. “We’re still deciding the venue, possibly London or Manchester. We’re aiming to put two belts on the line—the IBA title and the one currently held by Gassiev.” Chisora praised the IBA, saying, “What the IBA is doing is incredible. I believe there’s more to come, and it will only improve. We’ll be fighting in December.”
Gassiev holds the WBA ‘super’ heavyweight title, though his status is somewhat uncertain following reports that Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will compete for his belt on December 11. Gassiev himself expressed confusion over whether he still retains the title.
The press conference was organized by the IBA, a body that lost its recognition as the governing authority for amateur boxing by the International Olympic Committee in 2023, but has since been staging professional fights. Gassiev’s recent matches have been under the IBA’s jurisdiction, and he was promoted to WBA ‘super’ champion in June after Oleksandr Usyk vacated the belt.
Chisora’s recent fights have often been billed as his farewell bouts, and many within the boxing community have urged him to retire given his age. Nevertheless, with 36 wins in 50 fights, Chisora remains determined to keep competing.
“I never said I was retired. The promoters said it was my ‘50th last dance,’” he explained. “It’s like movie sequels — Rush Hour 1, Rush Hour 2, Coming to America 1, Coming to America 2. Now this is Last Dance 3. Trust me, I’m a salesman, that’s my job.”
Fan Take: For fans of the fight game, Chisora’s decision to continue competing is a testament to his heart and enduring passion for boxing. His upcoming bout with Gassiev could shake up the heavyweight division and inject fresh excitement into a sport hungry for compelling rivalries.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
