By Mark Vester
According to multiple reports in the Russian press, negotiations continue to make a mandatory WBC heavyweight eliminator between the seven-foot former champion Nikolai Valuev (50-2, 34KOs) and undefeated Olympic gold medal winner Odlanier Solis (16-0, 12KOs).
The WBC ordered the fight last week and placed a purse bid deadline of April 30. Discussions continue even with Ray Austin's attorney issuing a legal threat to the WBC. Austin had won an eliminator but he later filed for bankruptcy and rejecting his personal management and promotional agreement with Don King. Because of the legal issues, the WBC listed him as unavailable and ordered the fight between Valuev and Solis. The winner will get a shot at champion Vitali Klitschko.
Top Rank, along with Arena Box, handle Solis, and continue to negotiate the fight details with Don King, who promotes Valuev with Sauerland Event. Should a deal get struck, the fight is anticipated to take place in Germany or Russia.
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