By Luke Furman

The mandatory challenger for the International Boxing Federation title, Kubrat Pulev (19-0, 10KOs), says the IBF's beltholder Wladimir Klitschko is trying to delay their match. Last Saturday Pulev return to action in Neubrandenburg and stopped dangerous Joey Abell in four rounds. Klitschko will defend his WBO title against mandatory Alex Leapai likely in the spring.

"I can't say that he is running away from me. It's just not in his best interest to fight me, so he takes on weaker opponents. But he is mandated to defend the title within in a period of one year. Of course, he is maneuvering, trying to stay at the top for as long as he can," said Pulev to Bulgaria Sport. "I think I will have one more match before Klitschko, probably in March or April. My wish for next year is to become the world champion."

One contender who wants a piece of Pulev is British boxer Dereck Chisora. Regarding a Chisora fight, Pulev says - "It's not a problem. I am ready to take on everyone. I'll prepare well and beat him too."

Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org.