By Alexey Sukachev
According to Bernd Boente, manager for K2 Promotions, one of Klitschko brothers – either Vitali (WBC heavyweight champion) or Wladimir (IBO/WBO/IBF heavyweight champion) – can possibly arrange one of their title defenses in their Homeland, specifically in Donetsk, in 2011. An offer was made by the richest person of Ukraine, mining tycoon Rinat Akhmetov, who is also the owner of local soccer club “Shakhtar Donetsk”.
In his recent interview with the Ukrainian media “Segodnia” Boente revealed some details about the possible promotion:
“Three last fights of both Wladimir and Vitaly have been held at soccer stadiums attracting zounds of boxing fans. Meanwhile, Ukraine is the host of EURO 2012 (alongside Poland), so a number of huge, modern arenas are being built there at the present time. That’s why we are planning a possible fight in Ukraine the next year. Donbass-Arena has already built and functioning and we were approached by Rinat Akhmetov to make one of Klitschko’s fights there," Boente said.
"There’s only a plan; nothing has been resolved yet. Also there are some tiny moments that should be worked out and negotiated. For example, even though Ukrainian economics is slowly building up and developing, fans aren’t yet able to buy expensive tickets so that prices will have to be set pretty low. That’s why we should have a local sponsor (aside local political powers) who can provide a financial support for this idea. Negotiations are coming up but chances exist that we can bring one of heavyweight title fights in Ukraine pretty soon."
The fight will not interfere with RTL's broadcasting rights, says Boente. “Time difference is just an hour between Ukraine and Germany so there will be a few problems arranging a live broadcast of the show. An entire production will be delivered by RTL in this case”.
