Deontay Wilder edged Derek Chisora on a split decision in a wild heavyweight contest at London’s O2 Arena, likely marking the Briton’s final fight.
Chisora, 42, was floored in the eighth round but survived to the bell despite heavy punishment. Judges scored it 115–111 and 115–113 for Wilder, with one card 115–112 for Chisora.
The bout—remarkably the 50th for both men—was messy but entertaining, featuring knockdowns, point deductions and moments of drama. Chisora stunned Wilder in the fifth, but the American’s right hand proved decisive.
Wilder, 40, hailed his opponent’s resilience and spoke of fighters’ duty to protect each other. Chisora, joined by family in the ring, stopped short of confirming retirement.
If this was his farewell, Chisora leaves as a warrior and showman who never won a world title but remained one of British boxing’s biggest draws. Wilder, meanwhile, keeps alive hopes of future marquee fights, though signs of decline remain.
