Deontay Wilder called out Anthony Joshua for a long-awaited matchup after securing a split-decision victory over Derek Chisora in London on Saturday. The fight, held at the O2 Arena, was marred by chaotic scenes both in the ring and among spectators, with multiple fights breaking out in the stands. Wilder, who improved his record to 45-4-1, fist-bumped Joshua after the bout and declared, 'Let's do it.' Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed the Briton would be open to the fight.
The heavyweight bout itself was a brutal affair, with both fighters aged 40 and 42 exchanging heavy punches and frequently falling to the canvas. Wilder landed the only knockdown in the eighth round, sending Chisora through the ropes, though he was deducted a point for pushing. The judges scored the fight 115-111, 115-113 for Wilder and 115-112 for Chisora. Wilder later admitted he took it easy on Chisora in the later rounds out of respect, stating, 'Too many lives have been lost in this ring.' Chisora, who had announced this as his final fight, was non-committal about retirement afterward.
The event was further overshadowed by unsavory incidents in the crowd, with videos circulating on social media showing fans brawling in the stands. Security had to intervene to break up the fights and escort some spectators out of the arena. Despite the chaos, Wilder and Chisora shared a moment of camaraderie post-fight, with Chisora delivering Five Guys burgers to Wilder's dressing room.