Derek Chisora vs Kubrat Pulev Prediction: Bets and Odds on the Elimination Bout

On July 9 in London, there will be a rematch between two veteran star boxers. Derek Chisora and Kubrat Pulev will share the ring at the O2 Arena. Their first fight took place in 2016. Then the vacant European heavyweight title was at stake, and Pulev won by split decision.

Kubrat Pulev, 41 years old, successfully returned to the ring this May after a long break, defeating American Jerry Forrest. Derek Chisora, 38, comes back after three losses in close fights against strong opponents (Oleksandr Usyk and Joseph Parker twice).

Three defeats are still three defeats (despite the status of the opponents), and 38 years is still 38 years. You cannot teach old dogs new tricks - the technique won't change and the cardio as well, etc.

Chisora lost his last two fights to Parker, looking worse in the second fight than in the first. Among Chisora's opponents in his long career, there were many star fighters, and boxing fans from the former Soviet Union still remember his fight with Vitali Klitschko very well. 

I don't have to be liked by everyone. I know what I've got, and I sell a product to people who want to have that product. And that product is war. I train hard. I've got passion for the game. He had a fight a couple of weeks ago, but he boxed a nobody who hasn't got any of my skills. I'm going to eat his leather and I'm going to deliver my leather.

Chisora before the fight with Pulev

Kubrat Pulev lost only twice in his career, but to real superstars when they were at the peak of their form - Wladimir Klitschko in 2014 and Anthony Joshua in 2020. He won the rest of his fights, but we can't say he beat someone horrifying.

It’s going to be a great fight. One of us must win. I hope the judges and the referee are honest. He says this is war but for me this is not war—I don’t hate him.

Pulev before the fight with Chisora

There is nothing these aging guys have to show. Derek Chisora will offer to fight again and try to beat the hell out of his opponent. Meanwhile, Kubrat Pulev will try by all means to avoid it and show some semblance of skillful boxing. By the middle of the bout, both of them will get tired, and the fans can go to bed. Nothing will happen.

Bookmakers see Pulev as a favorite who is likely to win by points. The odds on his victory are around 1.41, while on Chisora's - 3.05.

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