ITV were forced to cut short an interview with Derek Chisora at Cheltenham Festival after the boxing veteran urged viewers to make a risky bet.
The heavyweight contender caused a stir during the opening day of this year’s Festival when he appeared on the broadcaster’s coverage.
His controversial gambling advice led to an abrupt end to the live chat.
The incident occurred when Chisora was asked about Wednesday’s Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase.
ITV were forced to cut short an interview with Derek Chisora at Cheltenham Festival after the boxing veteran urged viewers to make a risky bet
ITV
He immediately backed Ballyburn to win, telling viewers to “put your house on it.”
ITV quickly cut away from the 41-year-old boxer.
A commentator hastily added: “No no don’t do that.”
The broadcaster was clearly taken aback by Chisora’s enthusiastic gambling recommendation during the live segment.
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Derek Chisora told ITV viewers to ‘bet their house’ on Ballyburn winning at Cheltenham Festival
PA
Ballyburn, the horse Chisora confidently tipped, is trained by Willie Mullins.
The favourite will be ridden by Paul Townend in Wednesday’s race.
The Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase is scheduled to get underway at 2pm.
According to Paddy Power, Ballyburn is indeed the favourite to win the race.
Despite the broadcaster’s quick intervention, Chisora’s enthusiastic endorsement of the horse was unmistakable.
The boxing star appeared to enjoy his day at Cheltenham, where he was spotted posing for photographs with England and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
The boxer also took pictures with former boxing world champion Anthony Crolla, while he was additionally seen with his brother William during the festival.
Chisora is a former two-time heavyweight title challenger in his boxing career.
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He unsuccessfully fought Vitali Klitschko in his first title attempt before also falling short against Tyson Fury.
Despite these setbacks, Chisora has established himself as a durable contender in the heavyweight division.
His aggressive fighting style and personality have made him a popular figure among British boxing fans.
Chisora recently defeated Otto Wallin at London’s O2 Arena in February.
The fight was dubbed ‘The Last Dance’ and is expected to be his final bout on UK soil.
Derek Chisora could still have one last fight in Saudi Arabia
PA
However, the veteran boxer aims to have one more fight abroad.
His goal is to complete 50 professional contests before retirement.
Chisora could secure a final big payday in Saudi Arabia later this year.
His current professional record stands at 36 wins, including 23 knockouts, and 13 losses.