Povetkin Inks Contract With Ryabinsky, Eyes May Return

By Gregory Stangrit, photo by Victor Sokolov

Former world heavyweight champion Alexander Povetkin (26-1, 18KOs), 34-years-old, has signed a promotional contract with powerful Russian businessman Andrei Ryabinsky, who continues to build his "World of Boxing" stable. He recently signed up Denis Lebdev, Grigory Drozd and Rakhim Chakhkiev.

The Olympic gold medal winner has been out of the ring since losing a twelve round unanimous decision to WBO/IBF/IBO/WBA heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko last October. Ryabinsky, along with Vladimir Hryunov, put down over $20 million dollars to secure the promotional rights to that fight.

He was promoted for most of his career by one of the top companies in Europe, Sauerland Event. The contract with Sauerland expired at the end of last year.

"We signed a contract for three years, in which we plan to hold at least two fights a year," said Ryabinsky. "Next, we plan to have Alexander fight in May. The opponent will be named in two to three weeks. Povetkin will work with a Russian specialist."

Gregory Stangrit covers boxing for Allboxing.ru