Oleksandr Usyk has named Derek Chisora as his toughest-ever opponent, despite having faced and defeated some of boxing’s biggest names, including Tyson Fury.
The Ukrainian star, who is one of only three male two-weight undisputed champions in the four-belt era, made the surprising admission about his 2020 heavyweight clash with the British veteran.
Usyk’s remarkable career has seen him unify all titles at cruiserweight by defeating Murat Gassiev, before achieving the same feat at heavyweight with victories over Fury in their two-fight series.
Yet it’s the rugged Chisora who left the most lasting impression on the champion.
Oleksandr Usyk did not rank Tyson Fury or Anthony Joshua among his top opponents
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Speaking to talkSPORT.com, Usyk was emphatic about his choice of most challenging opponent.
“I think it is Derek,” Usyk said. “My friend Derek. Hey, Derek I am coming for you!”
The Ukrainian champion elaborated on what made Chisora such a formidable foe.
“Derek is a terrible guy, really tough. It’s just hard [fighting] Derek. He was just very difficult,” he explained.
Their initial encounter saw Usyk emerge victorious on points, but Chisora’s relentless pressure and refusal to take a backward step throughout all 12 rounds left an indelible mark on the champion.
Chisora, who recently defeated Otto Wallin, is now looking to end his career with a final bout in London.
The British boxer has set his sights on staging his farewell fight at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Usyk as his preferred opponent.
“My last fight will be in Tottenham. I’m pushing for Tottenham,” Chisora told talkSPORT.com.
Oleksandr Usyk became the undisputed heavyweight champion by beating Tyson Fury
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While he had previously considered a clash with Francis Ngannou, Chisora has now shifted his focus.
“I’m not going to say [Usyk]. I’m manifesting it. I’m asking God for the opportunity,” he said.
“I’ve said to Frank [Warren], you know, now Oleksandr Usyk has to phone his boss and ask his boss if he can fight me.”
Meanwhile, Usyk’s immediate focus remains on his next challenge in the heavyweight division.
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Derek Chisora has been ranked Oleksandr Usyk’s toughest opponent
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The Ukrainian is awaiting the outcome of the IBF title clash between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker on February 22.
“We wait for a fight on February 22 between Daniel and Joseph,” Usyk said. “Whoever wins this fight between Daniel and Joseph, I have already made the fight.”
With just two fights remaining before his retirement, Usyk’s path appears set, starting with the winner of the Dubois-Parker bout.
The champion had previously defeated Dubois, along with securing back-to-back victories over Anthony Joshua, before his historic wins against Fury.