Derek Chisora Ends Retirement, Says Murat Gassiev Fight Is Coming in December

Derek Chisora’s retirement has lasted only a matter of months. The 42-year-old heavyweight announced Tuesday at an IBA press conference in Istanbul that he plans to return in December against Murat Gassiev, reversing course after his 50th professional fight against Deontay Wilder in April. Chisora said the event is expected to take place in either London or Manchester, although an exact date and venue have not yet been finalized.

The proposed matchup immediately adds another recognizable name to a crowded heavyweight calendar. Gassiev, a former unified cruiserweight champion, currently holds the WBA’s secondary heavyweight title and competes under the IBA banner. Chisora said he expects both the IBA title and Gassiev’s WBA belt to be involved. Gassiev expressed respect for Chisora at the Istanbul event, while acknowledging that the veteran Brit is not currently ranked by the WBA.

The bigger storyline is Chisora’s refusal to close the book on a career that has repeatedly been billed as nearing its end. He had appeared headed toward retirement after reaching the 50-fight milestone, but Wilder’s pursuit of an Oleksandr Usyk fight changed the available options. Chisora-Gassiev would give British fans another heavyweight attraction in December, but the remaining details — particularly the date, venue and final sanctioning of the belts — still need official confirmation.