Derek Chisora adopted a distinctly unconventional approach for his pre-fight press conference this week, turning up in a tank accompanied by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. ‘Del Boy’ is set to make his 50th journey to the ring on Saturday evening when he faces Deontay Wilder at the O2 Arena in London.

The 42-year-old has pledged to retire after exchanging blows with the former heavyweight world champion. The Brit’s career has been considerably eventful, featuring incidents such as slapping Vitali Klitschko, spitting water at his brother Wladimir, and hurling a table at Dillian Whyte. Yet amongst his somewhat turbulent spell as a professional, his partnership with aspiring Prime Minister Farage certainly surprised many.

In an interview with The Guardian, Chisora revealed how he came across the outspoken politician, whose party he has backed previously. A conversation ultimately developed about how he would transport Farage to the O2 – to which Chisora vowed to arrange a tank for his close friend.

Unsurprisingly, the boxing veteran keeps his promises. The heavyweight star is thoroughly enjoying his final fight week, and before the press conference, Chisora was spotted mingling with Reform’s Farage – arriving at York Hall in a tank.

The politician required assistance climbing onto the decorated vehicle – adorned with information about watching Saturday evening’s action. Chisora swiftly followed and seemed to relish his moment atop the tank.

Regrettably for the boxer, it appeared he wasn’t in the driver’s seat. As the imposing vehicle proceeded through London Bridge, Chisora could be seen acknowledging supporters, while Farage evidently savoured the moment by brandishing Union Jack flags.

Chisora was born in Zimbabwe and moved to Britain aged 16. The fighter was questioned about his positive rapport with Farage, whose party has previously faced accusations of racism. The Brit remained firm in his belief that Farage’s party isn’t racist.

He said: “You’re always going to find people trying to fight for what’s theirs. I don’t call it racism. I call it politics. If people support Trump they’re told, ‘Oh, you’re a racist.’ Nigel’s come up with his party and now it’s, ‘He was a racist.’ Everybody who’s not with the left? You’re racist.”