Nikolai Valuev is confident that his WBA heavyweight title will not be jeopardised when he meets British star David Haye.
Russian star is in no doubt of triumph in Germany
Nikolai Valuev is confident that his WBA heavyweight title will not be jeopardised when he meets British star David Haye later this year.
The clash will see Valuev, 36, defending his belt against Haye on November 7 in Nuremburg, where the Russian previously defeated Sergei Liakhovich in February 2008.
Valuev's management team expressed their delight at confirming the 10,000 capacity arena as the venue for the fight.
"We are delighted to return to Nuremberg," said Chris Meyer, general manager of German promoters Sauerland.
"Niko only has the best memories of the Arena Nurnberger Versicherung. That is where he displayed one of the best performances of his career."
Agreement
The fight was originally announced in July but was unconfirmed due to legal problems involving American John Ruiz, who asserted he was Valuev's mandatory challenger.
Sauerland have subsequently reached an agreement with Ruiz's team, clearing the way for 7ft 1in Valuev to take on 6ft 3in challenger Haye.
Former undisputed cruiserweight champion Haye, 28, has suggested he could be the first man to floor his giant Russian opponent, a claim that Valuev's team have been quick to rebuff.
"After all the trash talk from David Haye, it is about time that someone shuts him up," said promoter Kalle Sauerland.
"I am sure Niko will gratefully accept this task. It will be a battle of David against Goliath but this time, Goliath wins."
The Russian himself remained unmoved by his adversary's verbal boastings.
"He can say what he wants," said Valuev. "I look forward to fighting in Nuremberg again. I will continue where I left off against Liakhovich."
"Haye is a strong challenger, but he will not beat me. I will defend my title and calm Haye down."
