Online Reporter
MANCHESTER. — Derek Chisora said he was “crying like a baby” ahead of his 49th fight but is aiming for a “blockbuster” against Anthony Joshua, Oleksandr Usyk or Daniel Dubois.
On Saturday night a bloodied Chisora won the IBF heavyweight eliminator against Otto Wallin, which could potentially put him on course for an encounter with Dubois in the summer, assuming the champion defeats Joseph Parker on February 22.
Speaking to TNT Sports after his victory, Chisora reflected on his victory on points.
“Otto Wallin was a good fighter. I thought he was going to gas out, but he didn’t, and he proved me wrong. When I arrived, I said to myself, I won’t cry.
“I started crying like a baby. I was in tears because I love the sport and I love the fans . . . the ups and downs.
“It was a very emotional day.
“It was a hard fight. It was very hard when I got the cut and something happened in the third round that I didn’t tell my trainers.”
Discussing his achievements so far, he added:
“Legacy, it’s made by the fans. I think I’ll be in the Hall of Fame when I’m dead, not now. I love it.”
Chisora then called up a trio of British musicians; Skepta, Lethal Bizzle and Tinie Tempah, and asked each of them to hold a picture of Joshua, Dubois and Usyk to gauge the crowd’s favourite choice for his 50th fight.
The cheers rang out loudest for Joshua, and Chisora answered: “I think I’ve earned No 50, a big blockbuster, please.”
Chisora’s promoter, Frank Warren, was open to giving his charge any fight he wanted.
An emotional Derek Chisora could be seen in tears arriving at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester for his clash with Otto Wallin.
Billed as ‘The Last Dance’, the showdown marked Chisora’s final fight on UK soil as he begins to bring the curtain down on an 18-year career in professional boxing.
In a clip shared on social media, Chisora made his way into the arena whilst wearing his trademark Union Flag bandana around his neck.
The 41-year-old could be subsequently be seen removing his sunglasses and wiping a tear away from his eye.
“Before I came to Manchester my wife said to enjoy yourself,’ Chisora said.
“I’ve been trying to enjoy it, but at the same time it’s very emotional, because I love the game, the ups and downs, the losing, the enjoyment, everything about it.
“It’s difficult to leave boxing when you’re told to leave it. But if it was up to me I’d do 100.”
The former world heavyweight title challenger is planning on bowing out with one final fight overseas this year before hanging up his gloves.
Former UFC star Francis Ngannou has been touted as a potential opponent, with the 38-year-old looking to return to the ring after defeats to Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
The pair were seen together at Old Trafford in November as Ruben Amorim claimed his first win as Manchester United boss against Bodo/Glimt. — AOL/Mailonline
Mathew Masinge