According to trainer Dave Coldwell, the outcome of Saturday night’s heavyweight bout between Joe Joyce and Derek Chisora will ultimately depend on the remaining capabilities of each fighter.
The O2 Arena in London sets the stage for the all-British showdown, which holds a special place in Chisora’s heart. Having competed there on nine occasions, he emerged victorious during his last five visits.
Chisora, with a record of 34 wins, 13 losses, and 23 knockouts, has been considered a veteran in his career for quite some time. On the other hand, Joyce, with a record of 16 wins, 2 losses, and 15 knockouts, has shown signs of decline in his recent fights against Zhilei Zhang and his less than impressive victory over Kash Ali. It seems that “The Juggernaut” may also be nearing the end of his boxing journey.
Coldwell, the trainer who prepared Chisora for his remarkable knockout win over Artur Szpilka at the O2 in July 2019, expressed his thoughts on his previous fighter’s fight against Joyce on Saturday (July 27).
The photo of Derek Chisora was taken by James Fearn/Getty Images.
“Derek said it’s his last fight at the O2. It’ll be a bit of an emotional night for him,” Coldwell told Boxing News.
I’m aware of his deep affection for that venue, as it holds a special place in his heart. The fans undoubtedly adore him, consistently showing up to support him there. I genuinely hope he receives a warm and enthusiastic reception when he performs.
In the battle, the determining factor is who has the remaining strength. I believe that’s ultimately what it boils down to – whoever still possesses something left to give.
Joyce’s consecutive knockout defeats against Zhang last year were both definitive and concerning. However, in March, the 38-year-old regained his winning momentum by securing a final round knockout against Ali from Rotherham. It is worth noting that Ali had previously suffered a six-round points loss to Bohdan Myronets before facing Joyce.
“Coldwell highlighted that Joyce, being a fighter, can potentially retire at any moment, particularly when enduring continuous shots throughout their career.”
Eventually, the resistance diminishes and once it disappears, it rarely returns. Moreover, he lacks the ability to conceal any weaknesses or fractures like a skilled fighter would. In fact, he was not impressive in his previous bout against Kash Ali. In my honest opinion, it all comes down to who has more left in the tank.
