Dereck “Del Boy” Chisora (18-4, 12 KO) came into the ring in tears. He was overcome by the emotions precipitated by the recent death of his mentor Dean Powell. Chisora put on a show against Edmund Gerber (23-2) on Saturday that would have made Powell proud. He captured the European Heavyweight title with a fifth-round TKO victory over the 25-year-old German.
From the opening bell of the first round, Chisora imposed his will in a bout that was fought in close quarters. In the third round, Chisora really opened up with power shots to the head and body.
Gerber’s face began to show the effects of the beating he was receiving. In the fourth round, Gerber actually hurt Chisora with a hard right-hand counter shot, but he didn’t apply pressure. He may not have shifted his fortunes in the fight had he jumped on Del Boy, but he certainly let any chance of winning slip away with his passive approach.
Chisora’s hand speed and punching accuracy left Gerber overmatched. This was a significant step up in competition for Gerber. Though he showed good heart, it was clear he doesn’t have the speed to compete with the best heavyweights in the world.
Chisora was victorious, but he didn’t look overly impressive considering the competition. The hard punch he absorbed in the fourth round could have been the beginning of his undoing against a better fighter. This win, coupled with his style and persona, will allow him another major opportunity.
Chisora could take on hard-punching heavyweight Deontay Wilder or even Tomasz Adamek, per the Box Nation telecast. Either man would present a major challenge for Chisora. In the post-fight interview, he talked about his deceased friend and being motivated.
Chisora did appear to be more mature in the ring and during his interview. Then again, Gerber didn't challenge him in either way.
He said he is now taking the sport seriously, but I’m not sure fans should consider him a serious title contender just yet.
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