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Alexander Povetkin's heavyweight clash with Christian Hammer is live on Sky Sports

Alexander Povetkin
Image: Alexander Povetkin could earn a world title shot with victory over Christian Hammer, live on Sky Sports on Friday evening

Alexander Povetkin can blast his way back into heavyweight world title contention when he faces Christian Hammer, live on Sky Sports.

The Russian faces Hammer in his home country this Friday evening and Anthony Joshua should be watching with interest, as the fight could be classified as a final eliminator for his WBA 'super' title.

Povetkin can also target WBO champion Joseph Parker as victory would boost his ranking with that governing body, but admits he wants to share the ring with Joshua in the near future.

Anthony Joshua
Image: Anthony Joshua is a potential future opponent for Povetkin

"I want to fight the best in the world, and Anthony Joshua is by far one of the best heavyweights in the world," Povetkin told Sky Sports.

I want to fight the best in the world, and Anthony Joshua is by far one of the best heavyweights in the world.
Alexander Povetkin

"I always go into the ring with confidence to win."

Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that Joshua could be ordered to face Povetkin at some stage next year, and has already discussed this possibility with the 38-year-old's promotional team.

Anthony Joshua, Eddie Hearn
Image: Promoter Eddie Hearn is planning Joshua's schedule for 2018

"We have spoken about Joshua vs Povetkin, and the likelihood of that," said Hearn.

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"We have a really good relationship with World of Boxing, who are his promoters.

"They have a situation where they can fight a final eliminator to be the mandatory for Joshua, or for the WBO, so they are making that decision now."

David Price
Image: Christian Hammer (right) halted David Price in February

Povetkin has suffered just one defeat in 33 fights, a points loss to Wladimir Klitschko in 2013, and is refusing to look past Hammer, who stopped David Price earlier this year.

"Now I have the closest fight with Chris Hammer and I'm concentrating on the next fight," he said.

"For any fight, it will not be easy. In the heavyweight division, one blow can solve everything. I'm tuned into battle."

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