Deontay Wilder spoiled Derek Chisora’s potential farewell party as he edged a thrilling split decision victory to send the Londoner into retirement at The O2 on Saturday night. 

The Bronze Bomber claimed it 115-111, 112-115, 115-113 on the scorecards as the pair marked the 50th outing of their decorated careers.

It was a bout that defined last chance saloon in more ways than one, war horse Chisora insistent throughout the build-up that he would be hanging up his gloves after Saturday’s fight and Wilder banking on one final opportunity to summon the generational power that has faded since his gruelling trilogy with Tyson Fury.

As much threatened to come to fruition for the American, whose pressure saw to Chisora receiving three counts during the contest, albeit one courtesy of an apparent fall through the ropes.

Thunderous shots, dramatic near-misses, trips to the canvas and a dogged back-and-forth for 12 rounds would appear to satisfy a London audience that expected said clinic in grit.

More to follow…

Watch Caroline Dubois vs Terri Harper and Ellie Scotney vs Mayelli Flores live on Sky Sports from 7pm on Sunday.