Derek Chisora to Return to the Ring in December, Rejects Retirement Talk

At 42 years old, Derek Chisora is set to fight again this December, dismissing rumors of retirement following his April loss to Deontay Wilder. That bout was promoted as his final one, marking his 50th professional fight, but Chisora has made it clear he intends to continue.

Upcoming Match Against Murat Gassiev

During a recent press conference, Chisora announced his next opponent will be Murat Gassiev. The location is still undecided, with options including London or Manchester. The fight will feature two belts on the line: the IBA title and Gassiev's belt.

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

He praised the International Boxing Association (IBA), saying their efforts go beyond what is currently visible and predicted improvements for the sport.

Confusion Over Gassiev’s Championship Status

Gassiev holds the WBA super heavyweight world champion title, but his status seems uncertain. There have been reports that Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua might fight for that title on December 11, casting doubt on Gassiev’s claim. The Russian fighter himself expressed uncertainty about whether he still holds the WBA championship.

Background on the IBA and Recent Activity

The IBA, which hosted Chisora’s news conference, lost its recognition as amateur boxing’s governing body by the International Olympic Committee in 2023. Since then, it has focused on organizing professional matches. Many of Gassiev’s recent fights have been under the IBA’s sanction, and he was elevated to WBA super champion after Oleksandr Usyk gave up the belt.

Chisora’s Career and Retirement Talks

Although several of Chisora’s recent fights were called farewell events, many in the boxing community have urged him to retire due to his age. With 36 wins out of 50 fights, Chisora continues to defend his choice to stay active.

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

Key Facts About Derek Chisora’s Boxing Record

• Total fights: 50
• Wins: 36
• Recent high-profile loss: April 2026 vs Deontay Wilder