Klitschko confirms new date

Wladimir Klitschko's world heavyweight title showdown with Jean-Marc Mormeck has been rescheduled for March 3 in Dusseldorf.

Heavyweight champion forced to rearrange defence for March

Wladimir Klitschko's world heavyweight title showdown with Jean-Marc Mormeck has been rescheduled for March 3 in Dusseldorf. Klitschko had been due to put WBA, IBF and WBO belts on the line against the Frenchman on Saturday - only for the Ukrainian to pull out following an operation to have a kidney stone removed. However Klitschko, who toppled David Haye for the WBA strap in his last outing, has now confirmed the mandatory defence will go ahead at the ESPRIT Arena. Klitschko said in a statement: "I know that I am the favourite in all my fights but I also know that each opponent is motivated to be in the best shape ever when he fights me. "Mormeck is one of the most experienced fighters I have ever faced. He has had many world title fights, has a very good technique, can take a lot of punches and is very intelligent inside the ring. "To underestimate him would be a fatal mistake. I am very happy to return to the ESPRIT Arena where I fought against Eddie Chambers. The spectators and the atmosphere for that fight were great and I am sure it will be again this time."