Heavyweight duel confirmed: Derek Chisora will meet former world champion Deontay Wilder on April 4 in London.
An explosive heavyweight duel between Derek Chisora and Deontay Wilder has officially been signed and is set to take place in London on April 4. The fight promises fireworks, power punches and plenty of dynamite – both in sport and behind the scenes. The Ring Magazine published a video on its verified social media channels showing Chisora (36-13, 23 knockouts) and Wilder (44-4-1, 43 knockouts) on a FaceTime call. In the scene, the British crowd favorite holds the signed contract for the upcoming showdown up to the camera.
“It’s signed,” Chisora declared confidently towards Wilder. “I hope you’re ready!” The former WBC champion countered in his usual combative manner: “Let’s go. I love you, brother – but this will be our last phone call. I’ll see you at the press conference and then in the ring, baby.”
Promoter dispute overshadows mega-fight
However, a potential promoter conflict casts a shadow over the duel. According to reports, the fight is being promoted by Kalle and Nisse Sauerland (Wasserman Boxing) – much to the displeasure of Frank Warren, Chisora’s long-time promoter at Queensberry Promotions. “We stick to facts,” Warren told IFL TV. “And the facts are that he (Chisora) has a contract with us.” Chisora himself sees the situation differently. He previously explained on TalkSport: “I’m no longer with Queensberry. My contract expired two months after my fight against Otto Wallin.”
Form curves ahead of the clash
In sporting terms, Chisora is heading towards his 50th professional fight with a tailwind. The British fan favorite recently celebrated three clear points victories in a row against Gerald Washington, Joe Joyce and Otto Wallin – solid ring work, high work rate and veteran qualities included.
Wilder, on the other hand, is on shaky ground. The feared puncher has only won two of his last six fights. During this period, he suffered two early defeats to Tyson Fury, a unanimous points defeat to Joseph Parker and a knockout loss to Zhilei Zhang.