By Rick Reeno
Multiple sources have confirmed to BoxingScene.com that Alexander Povetkin (24-0, 16KOs) will defend his WBA "regular" heavyweight title on July 14th against former two-time beltholder Hasim Rahman (50-7-2, 41KOs), as part of the proposed undercard to the Ricky Burns-Kevin Mitchell lightweight showdown at Upton Park in West Ham, London. The stadium holds over 35,000.
Promoter Frank Warren has scheduled a Tuesday press conference where he plans to officially announce, according to most sources, the Burns-Mitchell clash. Nobody should be surprised if both Povetkin and Rahman are present at this announcement.
Another strong rumor swirling about is a potential heavyweight fight between David Haye and Dereck Chisora - which is reportedly also taking place on this card - except neither fighter has a license to box in the UK. Haye retired from boxing last October, and Chisora was recently stripped of his license for a February brawl with Haye at a post-fight press conference in Germany. Chisora has a appealed the ruling, but the appeal hearing is not taking place until May 14th.
If Haye-Chisora is put together, it would certainly be one of the biggest UK shows in years. More interesting is the ultimate selection as to which fight is going to be the headliner of the show.
