According to British heavyweight contender Derek Chisora, he was not surprised with the unexpected fight withdrawal by former WBO world champion Joseph Parker.

The fight was scheduled for October 26th at The O2 Arena in London, as the co-featured clash to the junior welterweight unification between Josh Taylor and Regis Prograis.

But Parker withdrew from the bout with illness - which was attributed to a spider bite in Las Vegas.

Chisora got lucky - as Olympic bronze medal winner David Price accepted the fight on short notice.

"When I met Joseph in LA, I had a feeling he would pull out. My mind was already set that he might pull out. I told him the truth [when we met] and he didn't like it. Then I heard he's got a spider bite. Whatever," Chisora said to Sky Sports.

Parker would still like to face Chisora - even before this year is out. And a new date could be possible, says Chisora's manager David Haye.

"If [Parker] gets well soon [we can set a new date]. What powers will he have after a spider bite? It worked out well for Peter Parker," Haye said.

At the same time, Chisora is in no way overlooking Price - who does have a suspect chin and stamina, but is also capable of boxing and has a lot of power.

"I will still fight the same way. They can only mess around if you let them," Chisora said.

"Price is a big puncher if he lets the right hand go. He can put anyone to sleep. He's a big guy but he doesn't use his advantages. Come fight week everything goes out of the window. Best friend or not, I'm looking to destroy you. Then we can be friends. But in the ring? War."