Chisora Reverses Retirement Decision to Make Boxing Return

Derek Chisora has reversed his decision to retire from boxing. The 42-year-old heavyweight had hung up his gloves following his defeat to Deontay Wilder at London's O2 Arena in April. Chisora, who holds a professional record of 36 wins and 14 losses with 23 knockouts, had previously insisted that bout would be his 50th and final professional appearance. However, in the weeks following the loss, he indicated his willingness to run it back in a rematch.

Plans for a return bout fell through after Oleksandr Usyk expressed interest in facing Wilder. Now, Chisora looks set to return to the ring later this year against a different opponent.

On Tuesday, Chisora attended a press conference in Istanbul, Turkey, hosted by the International Boxing Association (IBA), where he revealed plans to headline a card for the organization in December. His most likely opponent is WBA heavyweight titlist Murat Gassiev.

Gassiev currently holds the WBA title, while Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are set to contest the organization's heavyweight 'Super' championship belt.

"In December, it's going to be me against Gassiev," Chisora said. "We'll decide on the venue—either London or Manchester. I think we'll put two belts on the line: the IBA title and the WBA belt that Gassiev holds.

People need to understand that what the IBA is doing is incredible. I believe it carries far greater significance than what we're doing right here at this moment. I'm confident things will only get better. Come December, we fight."

IBA President Umar Kremlev was also present at the press conference and stated that he had promised a fight to Chisora, whose career has been extremely grueling.

"Derek mentioned he wanted to come out and support the IBA because he's pleased with how we stage our tournaments," Kremlev said. "And we promised him a fight. That's why we're going to organize a bout for Derek in England. Our doors are always open to everyone, and we are ready to stage top-level events in any country."

Meanwhile, Gassiev told Sky Sports that he hopes to take on the winner of Fury vs. Joshua next year. For now, however, no official bout has been scheduled.

"Right now, I'm just training. I have people in discussions with the WBA, and my entire focus is strictly on my preparations," he said. "I'm a fighter. I'm not a manager or a promoter. I just want to fight and handle my business. I'm waiting to see how things unfold."