Derek Chisora suffered a points defeat by Deontay Wilder in a wild heavyweight contest at London’s O2 Arena in what is expected to be his final professional bout.
Chisora, 42, was dropped in the eighth round and sent through the ropes. The Briton looked close to being stopped several times as Wilder pushed for the finish, but the veteran somehow fought his way back.
American Wilder was awarded a split decision with scores of 115–111 and 115–113, while one judge scored it 115–112 to Chisora.
Both men absorbed heavy punishment as the contest, almost inexplicably, went the distance.
Chisora had his moments, notably stunning Wilder, 40, in the fifth round, but the former world champion ultimately deserved the decision.
Remarkably, it was the 50th bout of both men’s careers. Londoner Chisora – now with 14 defeats – had said beforehand it would be his last fight, but he hesitated to confirm his retirement when joined in the ring by his family.
It was not pretty, nor particularly elite, but it was undeniably entertaining. For Wilder, this represents his best win in recent years and extends a career that may also be nearing its end.
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