Dereck Chisora links up with Dave Coldwell

British heavyweight Dereck Chisora has joined up with Dave Coldwell, former trainer of Tony Bellew, as he prepares for a return to the ring.

The 35-year-old was last in action when knocked out by Dillian Whyte during their rematch in December.

It had been suggested Chisora, who lost his 2012 world title contest against Vitali Klitschko, would be contemplating retiring.

The London fighter, however, maintains he is not ready to hang up his gloves.

Coldwell helped guide Bellew to the WBC cruiserweight title, and clashed with Chisora’s now promoter David Haye during the controversial build-up to their two fights.

Chisora believes the new partnership can help him move forwards, with a potential clash against New Zealander Joseph Parker on the horizon.

“People know by now that I don’t like to do things the conventional way. This is a new direction for me, I’m excited to be working with Dave Coldwell, I’m learning every day, I’m buzzing,” Chisora said.

“Dave has done amazing work with my good friend Tony Bellew and his other boxers. I’m hungry to get back in the ring again, I will be back with new armoury, I’m ready for WAR.

“I’m hearing Team Parker have been calling my name, that’s easy to do when you’re on the other side of the planet. WAR Chisora is ready, I’m preparing for battle with whomever believes there are ready for WAR.

“If Team Parker want to take on this challenge, they know where they can find me.”

Rotherham-based Coldwell admits it was a “real big surprise” to get the call from Haye to partner Chisora, but is looking forward to linking up with the heavyweight.

“It’s water under the bridge as far as I’m concerned with any past history and we’re now working together for the benefit of Dereck,” Coldwell said.

“I’ve known Dereck for many years through his great friendship with Tony Bellew and we’ve always got on well together.

“He’s adapted very quickly to life up here and settled in the gym which shows that he’s serious about his career, there is a real hunger to develop and improve.”