Anthony Yarde is backing fellow Brit Derek Chisora ahead of Chisora’s high-profile heavyweight clash with former world champion Deontay Wilder.
Anthony Yarde has made a surprising pick for the April 4 heavyweight bout between Deontay Wilder and Derek Chisora at The O2 in London, siding with Chisora over the former WBC titleholder. The fight, which will air on DAZN, marks the 50th professional appearance for both veterans and arrives at a pivotal moment for two fighters trying to prove they still matter in the division.
For American fans, Wilder remains one of boxing’s most recognizable knockout artists, but his recent form has raised real questions about how much he has left. Chisora, meanwhile, has built a reputation as one of the sport’s toughest action fighters, and a London crowd will almost certainly turn the arena into hostile territory for the Alabama puncher.
Yarde made clear that he still admires Wilder’s past run at heavyweight, especially the explosiveness that once made him one of boxing’s must-watch attractions.
“I really like Wilder, I’m still a big fan of his. I miss the excitement he brought to the heavyweight division. Sometimes I go back and watch his highlights — especially the moments when he shouts his trademark ‘Bomb Squad!’” Yarde told The Sun Sport.
Still, Yarde believes Chisora’s mentality and durability could be the difference, particularly given Wilder’s recent wear and tear.
“Derek has a special psychology and a fighter’s character. I think he can win, especially based on the recent performances. I’m picking Chisora. Because of the wear on Deontay, he could even knock him out, although my main prediction is a points win for the Brit,” Yarde said.
The stakes are obvious. If Wilder wins impressively, he keeps himself in the conversation for another major heavyweight payday. If Chisora pulls it off, it would be one of the biggest late-career wins of his résumé and a signature homecoming moment in front of a crowd that has long embraced his all-action style. The real story on fight night may be whether Wilder can still change a bout with one right hand before Chisora drags him into a brawl.
