Derek Chisora sends Daniel Dubois obligatory title battle warning – however champ can keep away from him
Derek Chisora has sent Daniel Dubois a warning ahead of their mandator title fight – that Dubois could still avoid if he pursues a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk
Derek Chisora has sent Daniel Dubois a warning – but the champion may be able to avoid the fight.
Many observers expected Chisora, 41, to retire after his victory over Otto Wallin earlier this year, but he now looks set for a huge opportunity against Dubois.
The 27-year-old might have to defend his IBF Heavyweight World Championship against Chisora by June 21 – with IBF ordering the bout. The Ring has reported the mandatory clash will be officially called on April 22.
An IBF spokesperson said: “Derek Chisora is the mandatory challenger for Daniel Dubois but the mandatory bout is due to be ordered on April 22. There is not enough time for an eliminator since Dubois’ mandatory is due on June 21.”
And responding to the news on social media, Chisora said: “However, I am ready for WAR @DynamiteDubois. Let’s make a blockbuster at Tottenham Stadium for my 50th fight!” He then added: “Daniel, Don. Fight 50 I want it.”
However, a unification bout will supersede mandatory defences so Dubois could still be allowed to box Oleksandr Usyk in an undisputed world championship bout before having to box Chisora.
And, according to Sky Sports, Dubois is currently pursuing a rematch with Usyk, the WBC, WBO and WBA champion.
The Ukrainian is in a similar situation, having himself been ordered to fulfil a WBO mandatory title defence against Joseph Parker.
Chisora last stepped into the ring on February 8, when he defeated Wallin in a bout that was dubbed as “The Last Dance”.
However, since the bout Frank Warren said: “He wants a big fight to go out on. Eddie [Hearn] and I have had a couple of chats today and in due course will let people know our views on what we’ll do.
“We both have been involved in his career, he started off with me, been with me a long time, was with me for the last few fights.
“We want to deliver that 50th fight. I want to work something between us that we both [Warren and Hearn] walk him out.”
