In an exciting lead-up to their highly anticipated match, Derek Chisora affectionately refers to Deontay Wilder as his "brother" as they gear up for their fight on April 4 in London. This event marks a significant moment for both heavyweights, as they prepare to enter the ring for the 50th time in their careers.
During the promotional press conference, Wilder candidly remarked that it takes a "sick mind" to consider battling someone he regards as a friend. Known for their vibrant personalities and ability to entertain audiences, both fighters have been known to stir things up at media events. Chisora, for instance, once famously threw a table at Dillian Whyte during a confrontation.
However, at this particular event, there was a notable shift towards camaraderie. Chisora shared a heartwarming anecdote about introducing Wilder to the quintessential British dish of fish and chips at London's Borough Market prior to the conference.
"I don’t need to resort to theatrics like flipping tables or spitting water in anyone’s face," Chisora stated. "We understand what needs to be accomplished in the ring. I want to promote this fight without violence, especially considering the level of conflict we see in the world today."
While he acknowledged that the atmosphere would change as fight week approaches, Chisora even expressed the possibility of vacationing in Alabama with his family after their bout, where Wilder resides.
At 42 years old, Chisora took the stage adorned in a UK flag and bandana, consistently referring to Wilder as his "brother." Wilder, meanwhile, indicated that this fight is crucial for him, describing it as a "must-win" situation.
Chisora plans to hang up his gloves following this monumental 50th match, while Wilder aims to make a strong comeback in his quest to reclaim the heavyweight championship title.
"This match is essential for me. I need Derek’s skills as much as he needs my presence because of what I can offer in the ring," Wilder explained. "I feel rejuvenated and am eager to showcase my abilities once more."
The heavyweight clash is set to captivate boxing fans and is likely to sell out the O2 Arena, marking only Wilder’s second fight in the UK. However, this event will face stiff competition with two other significant boxing matches occurring that same weekend: Lauren Price’s welterweight world title defense in Cardiff, and Caroline Dubois facing Terri Harper in a lightweight unification bout in London on April 5.
Wilder, at 40 years old, finds himself at a pivotal juncture in his career, having suffered four losses in his last six fights. After consecutive defeats to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang, he took a year off from boxing. During this hiatus, Wilder sought therapy to address "issues outside the ring," admitting he felt mentally exhausted while preparing for his recent matches.
He made his return to the ring last June, achieving a knockout victory over the relatively unknown Tyrrell Anthony Herndon in seven rounds, and a win against Chisora could open doors for him to vie for a world title.
"If you’re aiming for Oleksandr Usyk, consider me the gatekeeper," Chisora quipped, indicating his awareness of the stakes involved.
Chisora hopes to conclude his professional boxing journey, which has spanned nearly two decades and 346 rounds. Although this isn't the first time he has hinted at retirement, when promoter Frank Warren suggested that another fight might be possible if Chisora wins, he quickly interjected, saying, "I am, please, please, please."
The initial face-off between the two fighters was remarkably calm, with more of a friendly conversation taking place than the typical intense stare-down. Wilder concluded the event with his iconic catchphrase: "Bomb squad!"
