Wilder Edges Chisora in Brutal 12-Round War at the O2
Deontay Wilder survived a grueling 12-round slugfest to defeat Derek Chisora via split decision on Saturday night at London’s O2 Arena. In a contest billed as “100,” the former WBC heavyweight champion secured a victory that served as both a milestone and a strategic stepping stone, whereas Chisora faced a points defeat in what was expected to be his final professional appearance.
A Century of Heavyweight War
The fight carried a unique historical weight: it marked the 50th professional bout for both men, totaling 100 combined in-ring appearances. Despite their advancing ages—Wilder is 40 and Chisora is 42—the two veterans defied expectations by delivering 36 minutes of high-intensity action that left the London crowd on their feet.

The bout was a chaotic affair of power punches and resilience. Wilder managed to knock Chisora down twice, while the British fighter landed a blow that sent the American to the canvas once. The fight remained competitive until the final bell, with the judges delivering a split verdict: two scored the bout for Wilder (115-111 and 115-113), while one favored Chisora (115-112).
Following the decision, Wilder revealed a surprising tactical choice in the closing stages, claiming he intentionally “took his foot off the gas” to protect Chisora from further damage. “I saw his temple start to swell,” Wilder told DAZN. “I said, ‘You’ve got to live for your kids.'”
FIGHT PROFILE: THE TALE OF THE TAPE
Deontay Wilder: 40 years old | Record: 45-4-1 (43 KOs) | Former WBC Heavyweight Champion
Derek Chisora: 42 years old | Record: 36-14 (23 KOs) | WBC No. 14, IBF No. 2, WBO No. 6 Ranked Heavyweight
The Final Bell for “War”?
For Derek Chisora, the narrative entering the ring was one of closure. The Brit had proclaimed the match would be his final appearance in a boxing ring, even arriving at the O2 Arena via the London Underground to connect with his fans. However, after the defeat, Chisora remained ambiguous about his retirement, stating he would “see” after returning home to his family.
The event also marked a business pivot in the sport, serving as the inaugural show for “MF Pro,” a professional boxing division promoted by KSI and Kalle & Nisse Sauerland under the Misfits Boxing banner.
The Road to Usyk
While the fight was a spectacle for the fans, for Wilder, it was a calculated move. Reports indicated the bout was designed as a “tune-up” fight to prepare the American for a potential clash with unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk in Summer 2026. With the victory in hand, Wilder has publicly voiced his intention to pursue a world title fight next.
Quick Analysis: The Verdict
Did Wilder dominate? No. While he scored more knockdowns and secured the win, the split decision and the sheer volume of the “slugfest” show that Chisora remained a dangerous opponent until the end.
What is the immediate impact? Wilder maintains his viability as a top contender and keeps the door open for a high-stakes encounter with Usyk.
Can Deontay Wilder maintain this level of intensity and durability if he secures a title shot against Oleksandr Usyk later this year?







