Get ready for a boxing showdown that promises to be nothing short of explosive! In just under a month, Derek Chisora and Deontay Wilder will clash in what could be one of the most pivotal fights of their careers—their 50th professional bout. But here’s where it gets controversial: Tony Bellew, a seasoned boxing veteran and fan favorite, has weighed in with a prediction that’s as bold as it is divisive. He believes one fighter will dominate the other ‘like a knife through butter.’ But who? And why does this matter so much?
Derek Chisora, a two-time world title challenger, has been on a remarkable streak, climbing the rankings and inching closer to a potential third shot at the heavyweight crown. With the heavyweight division’s belts expected to fragment soon, this fight could be his last chance to make a statement. Yet, Chisora has hinted that this bout against ‘The Bronze Bomber’ might be his final one, capping off a nearly two-decade-long career. But is he really ready to hang up the gloves? Not everyone is convinced.
In a recent interview with First Round Boxing, Tony Bellew, Chisora’s close friend and fellow British boxing icon, shared a different perspective. ‘No, I don’t think it is [his last fight],’ Bellew stated emphatically. ‘Boxing will retire that lunatic, he won’t retire from boxing, which is sad.’ Bellew’s words are a stark reminder of the sport’s unforgiving nature, but they also highlight Chisora’s relentless passion for the ring.
When it comes to the fight itself, Bellew admits he would have been worried if this matchup had happened a few years ago. However, he now favors Chisora over Wilder, citing the Brit’s superior hunger and determination. ‘If this fight had been made three or four years ago, it would have probably caused murder,’ Bellew explained. ‘But at this stage, I think Derek will weather a few stormy moments in the early rounds and then slice through Wilder like a knife through butter in the second half.’
And this is the part most people miss: While Wilder’s knockout power is undeniable, Bellew questions the American’s current drive. ‘Wilder is always going to have that punch, but I just don’t believe he wants it as badly as Del does,’ Bellew noted. ‘That’s been clear in his recent fights.’
The highly anticipated Wilder-Chisora fight is set for Saturday, April 4, at London’s iconic O2 Arena, and will be available live on DAZN PPV. Will Chisora’s hunger prevail, or will Wilder’s power prove too much? And will this truly be Chisora’s final fight, or is Bellew right—boxing will retire him before he retires himself? What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!