Perennial but ostensibly retired heavyweight contender Derek Chisora appeared at an IBA press conference in Istanbul, where he reveal plans for a comeback bout. The British heavyweight said he intends to face WBA champion Murat Gassiev in December, in either London or Manchester, England. “In December it will be me versus Gassiev. We are going to decide where, either London or Manchester... Let’s have fun with it,” the 42 year-old Chisora said. With a 36-14 career record, Chisora last fought in April, taking a split decision loss to ex-champ Deontay Wilder in an entertaining battle of two men who probably should not be engaging in professional boxing any longer.

 

“I absolutely agree, and I am ready to support it. It is a very good idea,” IBA president Umar Kremlev said. The IBA, a hybrid between sanctioning organization and promoter, could add an IBA title into the mix if Gassiev-Chisora were to actually materialize.

 

Chisora also praised the IBA’s work with boxers around the world. “They give opportunities to everybody: amateurs, boxers from Africa, from many different places. They are in it to develop boxing and to give opportunities to the younger guys. What the IBA does is unbelievable,” he said.