By Ruslan Chikov

Universum Promotions have confirmed the departure of former WBA heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev. The two sides agreed to terminate his contract. It was reported that Chagaev would secure a position on the Felix Sturm-Daniel Geale undercard on September 1 in Germany, but not according to Universum. The promotional company states that Chagaev still owes them a fight and they intend to use him on a planned September event in Moscow.

Universum is stating that their company is going to part ways with most of the older boxers in their stable, as they plan to use a new business model that focuses on their up and coming, young fighters.

"We wish him all the best for the future," said Universum chief Waldemar Kluch. "The separation is based on the new concept in Universum, which focuses on young athletes and prospects. There is an imbalance that exists with us in terms of the age of boxers. We are now investing more in young talent and developing them slowly. I think that after the Olympic Games in London, we are going to introduce one or two new signings."