By Luke Furman

Sources close to K2 Promotions are stating that Francesco Pianeta (28-0-1, 15 KOs) will be the next opponent for WBO/IBO/IBF/WBA heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (59-3, 51 KOs).  Terms have been reportedly agreed upon, but Wladimir is waiting to get approval from the World Boxing Association. Sauerland Event, who promote WBA "regular" champion Alexander Povetkin, put in a petition with the WBA to force Wladimir to reach a deal with them before entering a voluntary defense. If everything comes together, it will happen on May 4th at the SAP Arena in Mannheim.

Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org.