Chisora vs. Wallin to Fight in a Smaller Ring: "Nowhere to Run"

British heavyweight veteran Derek Chisora (35-13, 23 KOs) has shared his thoughts ahead of his showdown with Otto Wallin (27-2, 15 KOs) on February 8 at Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, UK.

"Otto Wallin knows how to play poker, he’s got a good poker face. But honestly, I’ve heard all this before, like 49 times. I know exactly what happens when I step into that ring—I love pain, I love war, and that’s why I’m excited about this.

The only fighter who really stood toe-to-toe with me was Dillian Whyte. I don’t think Wallin will fight openly; he’s going to run. That’s exactly why we pushed for a smaller ring. Now, he has nowhere to run."

Chisora’s team initially requested the fight take place in a 5.5m x 5.5m ring (instead of the standard 6m x 6m) to limit Wallin’s movement. While Wallin’s camp initially resisted, Chisora's comments suggest that a smaller ring has been approved.

The winner of this 12-round bout will become the mandatory challenger for the IBF heavyweight title.

For fight analysis and tactical breakdown, check the link.