Deontay Wilder secured a split decision triumph over Derek Chisora in a thrilling heavyweight encounter at London's O2 Arena last night, in what was anticipated to be the British veteran's farewell to professional boxing.
The American former WBC champion emerged victorious after twelve gruelling rounds, with two judges scoring the contest 115-111 and 115-113 in his favour, whilst the third official gave it to the home favourite 115-112.
It marked the 50th professional bout for both combatants, with 42-year-old Chisora suffering his 14th career defeat in front of a passionate 20,000-strong crowd.
The contest descended into chaos as both heavyweights traded heavy blows throughout an untidy affair that had spectators on their feet.
Deontay Wilder beat Derek Chisora in a chaotic bout
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Wilder sent Chisora crashing through the ropes in the eighth round with a devastating right hand, yet the Briton somehow hauled himself back into the ring to continue.
The drama intensified in the eleventh, when Chisora was again dispatched through the ropes, beating the count once more.
Moments later, Wilder himself hit the canvas after a combination of a left hand and losing his footing.
Referee Mark Bates deducted a point from Wilder for pushing during the frantic exchanges.
Speaking after his victory, Wilder revealed he had deliberately held back to protect his opponent's wellbeing.
"I had an adorable opponent. I knew Derek was going to bring everything he had," the American said.
Derek Chisora was badly wounded during the fight but showed remarkable resilience to keep going until the final bell
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"In the ring I saw his temple start to swell, I said 'you've got to live for your kids'. Too many lives have been lost in this ring, nobody gives a damn about us. Us fighters have to look out for each other.
"Tonight, I looked out for him, I want him to live for his kids. It's time for us to take care of each other. I have seven of my own, those are my best friends."
The victory breathes fresh life into Wilder's ambitions of challenging for world honours once more, with the 40-year-old having endured four defeats in his previous six outings.
Deontay Wilder and Derek Chisora showed each other great respect after the fight
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With former champion Anthony Joshua watching from ringside, speculation may now turn to a long-awaited clash between the pair after years of missed opportunities.
The Alabaman had entered the bout knowing that defeat would extinguish any hopes of facing unified champion Oleksandr Usyk.
As for Chisora, despite declaring beforehand that this would be his final appearance, the beloved British warrior stopped short of confirming his retirement when joined by his family in the ring afterwards.