Axelsen was handed a tough draw because the former Denmark Open winner basically hasn't played badminton in the past six months.
Back in April, he underwent surgery for a back injury, and only a little over a month ago did he make a comeback at a tournament in Hong Kong.
Axelsen suffered a big defeat in his first match back then, but at the China Masters shortly after, you saw glimpses of his former level, and on Wednesday evening at home in Odense, Axelsen gave evidence that he has taken further steps to regain his old form.
It was otherwise Chou who had the best start to the match and opened up a 15-8 lead before Axelsen got going.
The Dane began showing why he dominated world badminton for a long period, and suddenly he found himself ahead 19-16.
On his second set point, Axelsen secured the first set to lift the spirits of a delirious Danish crowd.
In the second set, the Dane continued showing that he still masters all facets of the game.
Axelsen looked very strong in his defensive play and dominated the net while he mixed up his game with well-timed smashes. At the same time, he did not look at all like someone who was hampered in his movements after the long-term back injury.
After winning 10 out of 11 points, the Dane decided the match when, on the second match point, he forced Chou Tien-Chen into an unforced error to seal a deserved win.