By Sean Pollock: Dereck Chisora (14-0) has had a remarkable year. He has gone from relatively unknown heavyweight to a recognized prospect after wins over Danny Williams and Sam Sexton. He won the British heavyweight title in May and then the Commonwealth title in September- both inside the distance. The unbeaten fighter now finds himself in a ‘Rocky-esque’ situation having signed up to fight the number one heavyweight in the world, Wladimir Klitschko (55-3); with view to fighting his brother Vitali Klitschko if he triumphs.

Chisora has managed to secure the fight with the top quality Ukrainian in Mannheim on 11th December. The title bid is a surprise opportunity for the man who calls himself ‘Del Boy’, but one can only question if Chisora is a fool for taking the fight, or does he really stand a chance?

Television’s popular ‘Only Fools and Horses’ character ‘Del Boy’ was well known for conning people into one of his risky schemes- but in contrast to his namesake, is the Zimbabwean conning himself? This is a fantastic opportunity for Chisora to shock the world and become a world renowned star, but its also an opportunity to damage your career. Although there would be absolutely no shame in losing to Klitschko, Chisora is still somewhat young and inexperienced and a punishing knockout defeat could hinder his future plans. One would only have to look at Russian Alexander Povetkin, who turned down the fight claiming he was not ready… a wise move?

Routinely, a top ten fighter, a mandatory challenger or a European title holder would get the shot that is being presented to ‘Del Boy’. You have to admire the man for taking the chance. He has displayed a level of audacity that has eluded world champion David Haye by taking on the biggest name in his division. Chisora could of- without disgrace- turned down this fight and opted to linger around the European scene or fought an aging heavyweight to up his profile.

The fact he has signed up to fight Wladimir outlines the level of self-belief Chisora possess but possibly also the naivety of the man. After all, there is a vast gulf between signing a contract and getting in the ring with a world-class operator like Klitschko and actually having the resilience to present a challenge. On a positive note for Chisora, the younger Klitschko brother by reputation doesn’t have the best of chins. ‘Del Boy’ is a vicious hooker, with either hand, and possess knockout power. Could he hurt the champion like Corrie Sanders and Lamon Brewster both managed to do? If Chisora can get past the Ukrainians long reach, who knows.

Klitschko hasn’t been beaten since 2004 and has become adept at keeping his opponents at range. Nevertheless, Chisora can take confidence from the display of a similar sized Samuel Peter, who in 2005, drastically exposed Klitschko.

Is this a foolish mistake from Britain’s next Heavyweight prospect? Or does he who dares actually win?