Derek Chisora Plans December Fight After Reversing Retirement Decision

Despite previously labeling his last match as his retirement fight, Derek Chisora has announced he will fight again this December. The British boxer, now 42, lost to Deontay Wilder in April during what was promoted as his 50th and final bout.

Fight Details and Opponent

Chisora revealed at a recent press conference that he expects to face Murat Gassiev later this year. The exact location is still undecided but is likely to be either London or Manchester. The contest will feature two titles, including the IBA belt and one currently held by Gassiev.

December will be me versus Gassiev, Chisora said. We are going to decide where, either in London or Manchester. We're going to put two belts on the line, I believe, the IBA and the one Gassiev holds.

He expressed confidence in the future of the International Boxing Association (IBA), highlighting its potential despite past controversies.

What people have to understand is that what the IBA does is unbelievable. I believe this goes deeper than what we're doing here right now. I believe it's going to get better and better. In December we'll be fighting.

Context on Titles and Controversies

Murat Gassiev is recognized as the WBA super heavyweight world champion, though his status has become unclear following reports of a possible title fight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua scheduled for December 11.

Gassiev himself admitted uncertainty about retaining the WBA championship during the same week.

The IBA, which hosted Chisora's news conference, lost its recognition as the amateur boxing governing body by the International Olympic Committee in 2023 and now oversees professional fights. Gassiev’s recent matches have been conducted under the IBA, and he was elevated to WBA super champion after Oleksandr Usyk gave up the belt in June.

Chisora's Career and Retirement Talk

Chisora has faced repeated pressure from the boxing community to retire due to his age. Despite this, he has maintained a record of 36 wins in 50 bouts and insists he never officially retired.

I never said I was retired. They (the organisers) said 50 last dance, he said. This is why you've got [films like] Rush Hour 1, Rush Hour 2, Coming to America 1, Coming to America 2. You understand? So this is the Last Dance 3. Listen, trust me, I'm a seller, I sell. That's my job.