Derek Chisora’s fight against Swedish contender Otto Wallin was supposed to be his “last dance.” Then, the ageless British warrior revised his statement, calling it his “last dance in the UK.” Now that the IBF has named him the mandatory challenger for the world title, even that promise may be at risk. Daniel Dubois could indeed face Chisora if the rematch with WBC, WBA, and WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk does not materialize.
The surprising scenario was confirmed by Frank Warren himself. The head of Queensberry Promotions, who manages Dubois’ career, did not rule out the all-British clash as a potential next step for the IBF champion. Here’s what he told Talksport:
“Well, Dubois’ mandatory with the IBF is Derek Chisora, so he may have to do that [if he doesn’t fight Usyk].”
“But [the IBF] will allow him to have a unification if we get it approved [by the WBO].”
“Four belts is the priority for obvious reasons, and I think it’s a fight that will sell out Wembley or do massive business in Riyadh because of the controversy in the first fight.”
“So I think that would be the number one choice, and Daniel has come on a bundle since that fight, so it would be interesting.”
According to Warren, everything will depend on whether the WBO agrees to allow the full unification of the belts, forcing Joseph Parker to wait longer for his shot. If the organization led by Gustavo Olivieri orders Usyk to fight Parker and threatens to strip him of the belt, then Dubois vs. Chisora would become a real possibility.
Despite years of people advising him to retire, 41-year-old Chisora continues to chase a big opportunity. After three consecutive wins—two of them coming as upsets—he could now incredibly secure a shot at a world title for the third time in his career before finally hanging up his gloves.