Wladimir Klitschko says the desire to prove a point is behind his decision to take up his option on an immediate rematch against new world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.
Klitschko admitted he underperformed in losing his crown to Fury in a below-par contest in Dusseldorf last Saturday night and did not take long to reject any possibility of retirement.
The 39-year-old said in a video message on Instagram: "I have a pre-Christmas gift for Tyson Fury and all boxing fans around the world. I'll be making use of my contractual option for a re-match against Fury. So to say, the fight of 2016 is in the making."
Klitschko's performance on Saturday night baffled observers and the Ukrainian clearly believes his defeat was a one-off rather than any indication of advancing years taking their toll.
Fury's trainer Peter Fury welcomed the news and said the bout could take place in England, adding: "We're looking at possibly getting it at Wembley Stadium next year."
And Fury admitted he was surprised by the speed of Klitschko's decision to take up a rematch, which delays other options such as a prospective unification bout against WBC champion Deontay Wilder.
He told Sky Sports News: "I think it's fantastic news. We're absolutely ecstatic. These are the two best heavyweights in the world, bar none, and it's nice to see them clashing again. We weren't expecting an answer before January. To know now the fight's going to be on, we're really excited and very happy."
Klitschko's manager Bernd Boente told Sky Sports News HQ that Wembley would not be ruled out: "If the best business case is in the UK, for example Wembley Stadium in London, we will be there.
"I spoke to Mick Hennessy who was my partner in the last negotiation, and is the partner now. We will look into the different options of where the fight could be - in Germany or in the UK.
"We will, together, make a decision. I'm sure we will do the best for both teams. We need, definitely, a couple of weeks. My gut feeling tells me the fight will probably be in May or June."
