Deontay Wilder: Assurance is ‘at an all-time high’ ahead of Derek Chisora matchup
LONDON — Deontay Wilder has expressed that he feels more confident than ever ahead of his heavyweight clash with Derek Chisora on Saturday.
Wilder (44-4-1, 43 KOs) is set to compete against Chisora (36-13, 23 KOs) in what marks both fighters’ 50th match at the O2 Arena.
Chisora, 42, has declared that this will be his final fight before retirement, while Wilder, 40, aims for one last effort toward a possible world title bout, having previously discussed a fight with Oleksandr Usyk late last year.
“My confidence is at an all-time high right now. The way I’ve been training and the mental and physical progress I’ve made in overcoming past challenges. I have truly healed,” Wilder told ESPN.
“It’s crucial for me to go out and perform as needed. It’s significant because the heavyweight division requires my presence. I revitalized it once before, and I will do so again.”
An emotional atmosphere is anticipated in London due to Chisora’s retirement intentions, and Wilder stated he is ready for the very best that the Brit has to offer.
“I’m expecting a lively Derek. I’m anticipating someone we haven’t seen before. This is his farewell celebration,” Wilder remarked.
“And I need that. I require that version of Derek Chisora [for me] to affirm that I’m back and to proceed with my plans to dominate the division. We know he will bring everything he has.”
Chisora acknowledged that he will likely shed a tear upon arriving at the arena, similar to his emotional moment before his last fight against Otto Wallin, and Wilder mentioned he might do the same.
“Because from one fighter to another, from one warrior to another, I comprehend the mental, physical, and emotional challenges we face to compete day in and day out,” Wilder stated.
