Editor’s note: This article was originally published on DAZN.com.
***
Heavyweights Derek Chisora and Oleksandr Usyk will finally meet on Oct. 31, it has been announced.
The fight was originally scheduled for May 23, but it was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs), a former unified cruiserweight champion, began his career as a heavyweight with a seventh-round knockout victory over Chazz Witherspoon in October of last year.
Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs), a former world title challenger, beat David Price in four rounds the same month Usyk beat Witherspoon. Usyk isn’t underestimating his opponent.
“I have really missed boxing,” said Usyk. “I am working hard in my training camp to show a spectacular performance on October 31. I expect a real test in Derek. He is strong, tough and resilient. He is a really big guy and he hits hard.”
Usyk explained why he made the move to heavyweight.
“As a cruiserweight, I reached the highest heights as undisputed champion and now I am following the same path as a heavyweight,” he said. “I need to test myself against world class heavyweights on my new road to undisputed and Derek stands in front of me.
“Many people say that Derek is a monster, but deep down he is a kind man. I don’t expect to see that good side of him. I know that he wants to break me, but I am water, wind and fire all together. Derek Chisora, I am coming for you.”
Chisora is similarly keen on getting back into the ring.
“Usyk, I’ve been ready for you all year,” he said. “It’s my home turf and after such a tough year for everyone, I’m going to give the British public the Halloween party they deserve and finally get revenge for my boy Tony Bellew.” he said.
Said promoter Eddie Hearn: “Yesterday’s news from the government was a kick in the nuts, so to bounce back with this fight at this time is so important for boxing. You’ve either got to sit back and say it’s not possible or find a way to make it happen, and I’ve got to say a big thanks to Team Usyk, ‘Del Boy’ and [manager] David Haye for staying patient and helping get this over the line.
“It’s an absolute firecracker and a fight that’s so important to the heavyweight division over the next few months. We saw a stunning victory from Povetkin recently to shake up the mandatory situation, can ‘War’ Chisora spring the upset and KO the undefeated undisputed world champ?
“I know he will do everything he can to try and get the victory and this will be another night of heavyweight drama.”
[lawrence-related id=13466,13358,9758,8587]