Undefeated and virtually unknown British heavyweight Derek Chisora (14-0) has reportedly been offered the December 11 title shot against IBF/WBO champ Wladimir Klitschko. Yawn. While Chisora is a relatively uninspired choice, it's not like Wladimir has a lot of better options. David Haye, Alexander Povetkin and Nicolay Valuev don't seem interested in sharing a ring with either Klitschko brother. In contrast, Evander Holyfield would be happy to fight either Klitschko any time, any place .... but no one wants to see the Real Deal take a beating. David Tua, who retains a loyal following despite not scoring a meaningful victory in over eight years, reportedly turned down the Dec. 11 date over money. What, a rematch with Monte Barrett is a better career move? And there is no interest in any more unwarranted title shots for retreads like Hasim Rahman, Samuel Peter or Shannon Briggs.
So the only semi-viable options are either Tomasz Adamek, who will likely get a well-deserved title shot next year, or a young, relative unknown. Among young, relative unknowns, Derek Chisora is as good a choice as any. At 6'1", 245 pounds, the 26-year-old Chisora would be a huge underdog ... as would any other opponent Klitschko might consider. Other young, relative unknowns that merit similar consideration include Denis Boytsov (24), Odlanier Solis (30) and Robert Helenius (26).
If nothing else, give Klitschko credit for remaining an active champ and not ducking anyone. It's not his fault the heavyweight division stinks.
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