War’s victory ended a three-fight losing streak in emphatic style, showing the kind of heart that will silence talk of a potential retirement, with the 38-year-old targeting Deontay Wilder as his next opponent. While Pulev deserves huge credit for his performance, it was the impact of 38-year-old Chisora’s crisp body shots that made all the difference on a classic night at London’s O2 Arena. It was a night to remember for Chisora who showed why he is so highly regarded in the heavyweight division It was a brilliant start to the first round for Chisora who was making Pulev work with plenty of jabs to his sides. Chisora’s strategy was clear early on as he looked to wear his opponent down and ensure he wasn’t caught with a knockout. Pulev was clearly frustrated based on the opening round and heading into the second round it was clear the Bulgarian wanted to stamp his authority on the fight. The Cobras emerged victorious in their first match in Hamburg in 2016, meaning Pulev knew he had the chance to cause some problems if he could catch the Briton with his jab. However, Chisora made a name for himself by nullifying his opponent’s threat and early suggestions indicated that this would be the strategy once again. Pulev did well to keep his cool, with Chisora close behind ensuring the fight remained ugly throughout. After three rounds, Chisora was attracting praise from his corner for the pace and speed of his performance so far, with Delboy looking superior in the early rounds and leaving Pulev with a nasty cut to his head. However, things began to change during the fourth and fifth rounds, with the fifth ending with Pulev in control and Chisora on the ropes. The war eased somewhat in rounds six and seven, however in the closing stages of the seventh the 38-year-old came out of the blocks and caught Pulev with several overhead shots. Chisora was bruised but showed the kind of heart that has seen him enjoy a career spanning more than 15 years, putting Pulev through as much pain as he suffered.
Elle of a punch
OnlyFans star coached by Tibbs and sparring with Bridges ahead of debut
SHOCKING
Amateur boxer punched opponent without gloves after defeat
SERIOUS
Fury concussed, ‘massive swelling’ and feared brain damage after Wilder fight
revenge
Chisora v Pulev LIVE: UK start time, undercard and how to watch heavyweight rematch
OUCH
‘I Should Sue’ – Jake Paul Reacts To John Fury’s Comments On Canceled Tommy Fury Fight
sad
Bigfoot suffers 10th straight loss to 320lb neo-nazi two weeks after brutal MMA KO
Getty
Chisora hit the ring to Elvis Presley’s ‘Always On My Mind’
Getty
Chisora certainly showed real heart against Pulev at the O2
Getty
Pulev gave The War plenty to think about over the course of 12 intellectual rounds
Derek Chisora vs Kubrat Pulev II living up to the ‘Total Carnage’ tagline.
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) July 9, 2022
Heading into the tenth and 11th rounds, there was very little to choose between the two, with all 12 rounds going with both fighters convinced they had done enough to secure victory.
However, it was Chisora who reaped the rewards for a performance that was full of heart as he ended talk of retirement by ending his three-fight losing streak.
Speaking after the race, he said: “I think the last time I won a race was three years ago.
“It was difficult. Pulev is a great fighter. I am happy today. At the same time, I am sad.
Getty
Chisora was thrilled to hear he had come out on top
Getty
Chisora wasted no time calling out Deontay Wilder as he targeted a huge next fight
“I don’t have much in me, but what I have, I will give it all to you guys.
“I don’t have much left. I don’t want easy matches.
“I told Eddie [Hearn] the other day if you can get me the “Bronze Bomber” [Deontay Wilder]I will be happy.
“I’m happy, but at the same time, I’m sad. I don’t have much in me. I’m on my way so I don’t want easy fights.
“I want to fight everyone from my time. Win or lose, I just want to fight. I needed a win. I have lost so many races on the road. I needed a win, and what a great way to get it. i’m buzzing right now. It’s great to be a winner.”