Derek Chisora says the rematch with Deontay Wilder is now likely to be the last fight of his career after receiving what he called the “green light” from his wife to continue boxing.
The 42-year-old Chisora lost a split decision to Wilder at the O2 Arena in London on April 4, but the reaction inside the arena left room for a second fight after many fans disagreed with the scorecards. Chisora found success in the middle rounds by pressing Wilder and landing right hands as the former WBC champion stopped moving his feet.
Wilder still won the fight, but he looked uncomfortable late as Chisora forced exchanges along the ropes. The pace of the battle and the level score immediately after the final bell prompted talk of a rematch among British fans. Chisora said negotiations are already progressing.
“I am working on the rematch. The woman gave me the green light, so I will do the rematch,” Chisora said. Sky Sports Boxing.
“I haven’t confirmed it yet. I have some meetings tomorrow, and we’ll see how it goes.”
Chisora originally pitched the Wilder bout as the closing chapter of his career, making his decision to continue surprising given the punishment he absorbed over 50 professional fights.
The British heavyweight has shared the ring with names such as Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk and Dillian Whyte over a long career that has made him one of the most recognizable veterans in British boxing.
Chisora said Wilder also wants the second fight despite winning the first encounter.
“He’s keen because he’s also upset about the result. Yes, he might have won, but he’s upset, so we’re going to reverse it.”
A rematch is likely to bring renewed scrutiny from the British Boxing Board of Control due to Chisora’s age and the amount of punishment he took late in his career. Despite this, his willingness to trade and his pressing style still make him a draw in the British heavyweight scene.
Chisora says the plan remains unchanged after the rematch.
“That’s it. End of this year I’ll be retiring,” Derek said.
Click here to subscribe to our FREE newsletter
Related Boxing News:
Last updated on 2026/05/13 at 09:01
