Derek Chisora Names His Heaviest Hitters Ahead of Wilder Showdown

The Unlikely Titan: Why Derek Chisora's Toughest Puncher Isn't Who You'd Expect

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:10pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a heavyweight boxing match, with sharp planes of color and form representing the raw energy and unpredictability of the sport.An unexpected revelation about the hardest punch a veteran heavyweight boxer has ever taken challenges preconceptions about power in the sport.Today in Miami

As Derek Chisora gears up for his final fight against Deontay Wilder, the veteran heavyweight has revealed a surprising name as the hardest puncher he's faced - journeyman Paul Butlin. Despite battling some of boxing's biggest power punchers, Chisora says Butlin landed the single most devastating blow, challenging our preconceptions about who holds the heaviest hands.

Why it matters

Chisora's choice of Butlin over marquee names like David Haye, Tyson Fury, and Dillian Whyte provides a unique perspective on the unpredictable nature of power in boxing. It suggests that impact isn't always about reputation, but can come from unexpected sources, highlighting the crucial role that journeymen play in shaping careers.

The details

In his nearly two-decade career, Chisora has been stopped four times, with losses to Haye, Fury (twice), and Whyte. Yet when asked about the single hardest punch he's ever taken, Chisora named Paul Butlin, a fighter with a modest stoppage record, as the one who landed the most devastating blow. This unexpected revelation challenges the notion that power is solely defined by a fighter's reputation.

  • Chisora has been stopped four times in his career, with losses to Haye, Fury (twice), and Whyte.
  • Chisora will face Deontay Wilder, one of boxing's biggest punchers, in what is billed as his final fight.

The players

Derek Chisora

A veteran heavyweight boxer who has faced some of the division's biggest punchers, including David Haye, Tyson Fury, and Dillian Whyte.

Deontay Wilder

A former heavyweight champion known for his devastating knockout power, who will face Chisora in what is billed as the latter's final fight.

Paul Butlin

A journeyman heavyweight boxer who, according to Chisora, landed the single hardest punch the veteran has ever taken, despite Butlin's modest stoppage record.

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What they’re saying

“We often focus on the champions and the contenders, but the journeymen play a crucial role in shaping careers and providing the toughest tests. They might not have the fanfare, but they possess the grit and the ability to land a significant blow when you least expect it.”

— Dean Jakubowski Ret, Author

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.