Derek Chisora-Otto Wallin confirmed for February 8 in Manchester

Otto Wallin has replaced Jarrell Miller as Derek Chisora’s opponent at Manchester’s Co-op Live on February 8.

A promotional dispute with Dmitry Salita ruled Miller out, leading to Wallin – who has previously recorded defeats by Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, and who once was also promoted by Salita – replacing him.

Sweden’s Wallin, 34, stopped Onoriode Ehwarieme in a round in July in his first fight since being stopped by Joshua in December 2023. The 40-year-old Chisora revived his career by unexpectedly outpointing Joe Joyce the following night.

There will also be an appealing light-heavyweight fight between Willy Hutchinson and Zach Parker, a contest for the British and Commonwealth junior-welterweight titles between the champion Jack Rafferty and Kane Gardner, and a Commonwealth featherweight title fight between Masood Abdulah, the champion, and Zak Miller.

“This is a heavyweight fight I expect to deliver in a big way,” said Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions. “Obviously Derek needs absolutely no introductions and fully deserves such a showpiece occasion on a magnificent stage against a top-class contender.

“He has stated that he wants to hit a half-century of fights and that he wants one of his final two to be in Manchester, so we are delighted to make this possible for him and to stage our first promotion at the impressive Co-op Live Arena, which I hope will be packed out for Derek’s 49th fight.

“Otto has been on the brink of heavyweight glory before and backs himself to return to the top table. Unfortunately, he just didn’t get going when he got his big shot at Anthony Joshua, so this presents a major opportunity for Otto to put himself back at the forefront of what is a booming division.

“This card also features a fantastic undercard. Boxing fans are in for a real treat on February 8th.”