By Ruslan Chikov

Mikkel Kessler (43-2, 32KOs) is hoping to start sparring for a return in March and then fight again by May or June. Kessler has not been in the ring since last April WBC title victory over Carl Froch. He left the Super Six tournament after suffering an eye injury and experiencing double-vision in the gym. Kessler is the WBC's Champion Emeritus, which allows him to get an immediate challenge at the champion Froch.

"I'm just taking a break so my eye injury can heal. According to my time table, I'll start sparring in March and I hope to return in May or June. When the Super Six is over, I'll be the first to meet the winner and take back my WBA and WBC titles," Kessler told BT.

There could be an issue with Kessler's plan as IBF champion Lucian Bute signed a contract with Showtime and was promised a crack at the Super Six winner. Kessler advised Bute to stand down because he is not the first in line for that honor.