This weekend, Dereck Chisora returns to the O2 Arena for a rematch with Kubrat Pulev. The two first fought back in 2016, with Pulev coming out on top. But Chisora will be looking to even the score this time around.
The first bout was quite close, with Pulev winning on the scorecards in Hamburg, Germany, by a split decision. Chisora, though, will be a much-improved fighter when he steps into the ring come fight night and will feel he can accomplish it the second time around.
So who will come out on top in this heavyweight showdown? Here's a closer look at both fighters and how things might play out in England.
These odds are courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook on July 9.
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Dereck Chisora (32-12-0) vs. Kubrat Pulev (29-2-0)
The only two losses of Pulev’s career have come against two legends in Wladimir Klitschko and Anthony Joshua, with his loss to Joshua coming in 2020. Pulev is a big, strong heavyweight who stands at 6’4″ and likes to come forward and brawl. He's got a decent jab and can crack with his right hand, but he's not the most mobile heavyweight. Pulev will look to back Chisora up against the ropes and unleash some big shots to score a knockout victory.
As for Chisora, three straight losses since his TKO win over David Price in 2019 have his career on the ropes, as the 38-year-old desperately needs a win to get back on track in the heavyweight division. Chisora is a huge heavyweight who likes to come forward and put pressure on his opponents early and often. He's also got a good jab and can really unload with his right hand when he gets going. Chisora is also a decent body puncher and will look to wear Pulev down with some big shots to the midsection.
Bottom Line
Chisora is the more tested fighter, and he's got the power advantage in this one. However, Pulev is the more technical fighter, and he's shown an ability to take a punch in the past.
In the end, I think Chisora will be too much power for Pulev to handle this time around, and Chisora’s recent fights against killers in Joseph Parker and Oleksandr Usyk will prove to be worthy losses. Chisora will come out aggressive and look to put Pulev away early. While Pulev will likely hang in there, Chisora will eventually find a home for his big right hand and score a knockout victory in the later rounds.
Pick: Derek Chisora +195
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