Olympic gold medal winner Alexander Povetkin and his handlers have reached an agreement to face Michael Hunter, according to Povetkin's promoter Andrei Ryabinsky of World of Boxing.
The bout agreement has yet to be signed, but Ryabinsky does not expect any issues in wrapping the deal up.
The fight is scheduled for December 7 in Saudi Arabia. Povetkin vs. Hunter would be part of the undercard to the heavyweight rematch between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz.
Hunter, in his last match, won by dominant unanimous decision on the cards of the judges when he defeated another Russia boxer, Sergey Kuzmin. The record of the 31-year-old United States Olympian is 18 victories (15 by KO) and one defeat.
The 40-year-old Povetkin, a former WBA heavyweight champion, has 35 victories (24 by KO) and two losses. In late August, the Russian boxer placed his career back on track after winning a twelve round unanimous decision over Hughie Fury of the UK.
“The contract with Hunter has not been signed yet, but there is an agreement,” Ryabinsky said to tass. “I think everything will be in order, we will complete these formalities. And Alexandera will box in Saudi Arabia.”
Ryabinsky views Hunter as a very dangerous opponent. Hunter's sole defeat came at the hands of Okeksandr Usyk at cruiserweight.
"First of all, Hunter is a very serious and dangerous opponent. For Alexander, a victory in such a fight would present the opportunity to advance in the rankings. Well, the main thing is that a large number of people will watch the fight, because it will take place before the Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua rematch," explained Ryabinsky.
Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org