Usyk v Chisora rearranged for October 31

The heavyweight fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Dereck Chisora has been rearranged for October 31.

The pair were initially set to meet on May 23, but the coronavirus pandemic saw the bout at The O2 Arena in London postponed.

Former undisputed cruiserweight world champion Usyk (17-0) has been made to wait for his second heavyweight test, having stopped unheralded American Chazz Witherspoon on his debut last October.

The Chisora fight will go ahead just over a year on from that contest, however, after an agreement was announced on Wednesday.

“I have really missed boxing,” Usyk said. “I am working hard in my training camp to show a spectacular performance on October 31.

“I expect a real test in Dereck – he is strong, tough and resilient. He is a really big guy and he hits hard.

“As a cruiserweight, I reached the highest heights as undisputed champion and now I am following the same path as a heavyweight.

“I need to test myself against world-class heavyweights on my new road to undisputed and Dereck stands in front of me.

“Many people say that Dereck is a monster, but deep down he is a kind man. I don’t expect to see that good side of him.

“I know that he wants to break me, but I am water, wind and fire all together. Dereck Chisora, I am coming for you.”

Chisora (32-9) added: “Usyk, I’ve been ready for you all year.

“It’s my home turf and, after such a tough year for everyone, I’m going to give the British public the Halloween party they deserve and finally get revenge for my boy Tony Bellew.”