Deontay Wilder Does U-Turn, Fighting Derek Chisora in London April Bout Instead of Usyk
By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent
London, UK (January 26th, 2026)– Shortly after appearing to be maneuvering for a world heavyweight title bout with Oleksandr Usyk in the works in the United States, former World Boxing Council World heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has changed his mind and has opted for a non-title bout with former world heavyweight contender Derek ‘War’ Chisora on April 2nd, 2026 in London, England, United Kingdom instead on Sky Sports. The O2 Arena is rumored to be the likely venue. The promotional situation is still being sorted out at this time.
Wilder, 44-4-1 with 43 knockouts, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, age 40, is coming off a July 2025 seventh-round stoppage win over Tyrell Anthony Herndon in Charles Koch Arena in Wichita, Kansas in July 2025. Chisora, 36-13 with 23 knockouts, Finchley, London, United Kingdom, age 42, is coming off wins over Otto Wallin, Gerald Washington, and Joy Joyce, and was another name mentioned as an optional challenger for Usyk. Presumably, Usyk could fight the winner of this bout or choose another optional opponent.
Chisora remains popular in England among British fight fans. Considering the ages of the combatants, the bout between Wilder, age 40, and Chisora, age 42, should prove interesting as both heavyweight careers wrap up, and both competitors bid for a possible final world title shot at Usyk, the WBC, WBA, IB, andF IBO titleholder, or WBO titleholder Fabio Wardley, later in 2026.
Derek Chisora Signs Contract With Deontay Wilder
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Robert Brizel – Head Boxing Correspondent