Dereck Chisora to fight Kubrat Pulev in IBF title eliminator on May 7

Dereck Chisora (25-5, 17 KOs) will fight Kubrat Pulev (22-1, 12 KOs) in a European heavyweight title bout and IBF world title eliminator on May 7 at the Barclaycard Arena in Hamburg, Germany.

Both men look to reclaim the European crown and land a second world title shot.

The winner will challenge for the IBF title, currently held by Charles Martin, who will defend the belt against Anthony Joshua on April 9.

Former British and Commonwealth champion Chisora, who was outpointed by Vitali Klitschko for the WBC title in February 2012, has won his last five outings since he was stopped by Tyson Fury in November 2014.

Bulgaria's Pulev has won twice since his only career loss when he was knocked out in five rounds by then world champion Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015.

Chisora said: "Pulev has been on my radar for a while now. He's a great athlete and he has my respect, but come fight night, I'm not messing around. I'm coming to mess this guy up. I'm going to outwork him and out strength him. I'll be all over him from the first bell.
''I'm excited for the opportunity. This is a chance for me to prove myself against one of the top fighters in the division and get back into a position to challenge for the world title. I'm in great shape. I'm training harder than ever and I'm ready to go. This is going to be one my best fights ever.''

Pulev said: ''This is a very important fight for me. I learnt a lot from the Klitschko fight, but now I'm back and stronger than ever.
''Dereck is a good boxer, but I'm better, and I know I can beat him. I'm looking forward to the challenge and the chance to win back the European title. I'm sure the arena in Hamburg will be full of Bulgarians cheering me to victory.
''I know I have what it takes to be world champion, and next time I will be successful."