Derek Chisora is set to take on former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder at a London venue on 4 April, marking the British veteran’s landmark 50th professional contest.

The announcement comes more than a decade after the two heavyweights were originally scheduled to meet in the ring.

That 2012 encounter never materialised after Wilder was unable to travel to Britain following a domestic violence arrest.

Chisora, now 42, had previously indicated his intention to conclude his career with a 50th bout staged abroad.

Derek Chisora, 42, will face Deontay Wilder, 40, this year

 | PAHowever, the Finchley fighter has opted to remain on home soil for this significant milestone.

The American, now 40, once struck fear into opponents as the division’s most devastating puncher.

Yet his standing has diminished considerably since suffering consecutive defeats to Tyson Fury in 2020 and 2021, surrendering his WBC belt in the process.

Wilder’s fortunes deteriorated further with stoppage losses to Joseph Parker in 2023 and Zhilei Zhang the following year.

Deontay Wilder’s star power has faded in recent years

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Following more than twelve months away from the ring, he returned last June with a seventh-round finish against the relatively unknown Tyrrell Anthony Herndon.

Chisora, conversely, has experienced something of a renaissance. The 42-year-old has strung together three consecutive victories, securing points decisions over Joe Joyce and Otto Wallin.

Tyson Fury, who defeated both men during his career, has thrown his support behind his fellow Briton. The Gypsy King believes the contest warrants championship recognition.

“There should be a belt on the line. You’ve got two legendary fighters here,” Fury declared.

“A world champion with 10 title defences from the USA, and an absolute warlord from the United Kingdom.”

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Despite his recent struggles, Wilder remains linked to a potential clash with unified champion Oleksandr Usyk should he emerge victorious against Chisora.

The British veteran had also been connected with a third meeting against Dillian Whyte or a challenge for Fabio Wardley’s WBO title.

This April encounter presents a fascinating contrast in styles. Chisora has built his reputation as an unrelenting brawler, dragging adversaries into gruelling exchanges and wars of attrition.

Wilder, whilst technically limited, possesses the kind of one-punch power that can conclude proceedings in an instant.

The central question remains whether the Bronze Bomber retains any semblance of his former destructive capabilities.

Should traces of vintage Wilder emerge, spectators could witness a thrilling confrontation.

If not, Chisora’s relentless pressure and remarkable durability may prove too much for an opponent who has appeared increasingly vulnerable in recent outings.