Broadcaster Simon Jordan argues Derek Chisora has not earned a WBA heavyweight title shot against champion Murat Gassiev. The criticism follows Gassiev’s recent title defense, after which Chisora’s presence fueled speculation about a future bout despite his recent loss to Deontay Wilder.
The debate ignited after Murat Gassiev’s sixth-round stoppage of Peter Kadiru in his first defense of the full WBA heavyweight title. Derek Chisora entered the ring post-fight and was seen with IBA president Umar Kremlev, immediately suggesting he was being positioned as Gassiev’s next challenger. Jordan, however, insists that merit should dictate championship opportunities. He believes fighters who have built winning records are being overlooked for a more marketable name.
Speaking on the matter, Jordan was direct. “Derek Chisora shouldn’t be in the running there. It should be the fighters that have earned their way to the top,” he stated. His argument centers on a traditional boxing principle that has been increasingly ignored in the modern era of the sport.
Jordan highlighted the old standard for title contention. “It’s the old rule that you can’t fight for the world title coming off a loss unless it’s a rematch for the same belt. I think that doesn’t apply anymore,” he explained. Chisora’s last fight was a 12-round split decision loss to Deontay Wilder in April. While his popularity keeps him in high-profile discussions, Jordan believes recent results must remain the primary qualifier for a shot at a world championship.
The potential fight is not just a matter of principle but also of appeal for the broadcaster. “As long as they’re in the top 10 or 15 of the rankings you can do it, but we could see that fight, Gassiev against Chisora. That could happen in Africa. I’m not going to run to watch that.” The statement underscores his belief that the matchup lacks sporting legitimacy, regardless of where it might be staged. Whether the WBA sanctions the fight remains to be seen, but the conflict between Chisora’s box-office appeal and his recent record is now at the center of the heavyweight title picture.
