Vitali Klitschko will make the third defence of his WBC heavyweight title against Kevin Johnson in Switzerland.
Ukrainian set for third title defence
Vitali Klitschko will make the third defence of his WBC heavyweight title against American Kevin Johnson in Berne, Switzerland.
The Ukrainian, whose brother Vladimir holds the IBF, IBO and WBO titles, will meet undefeated Johnson at the PostFinance-Arena in December.
Klitschko retained his WBC title with a 10th-round TKO over previously unbeaten challenger Chris Arreola in September.
It was the 38-year-old's third victory since making a comeback last year following an injury-induced retirement in 2005.
"I feel fully fit. I cannot wait to get back into the ring," he said.
"Kevin Johnson is dangerous. He has already fought 23 times, is undefeated and is technically superior to Arreola.
"I will not underestimate Johnson and as always will prepare myself meticulously for my opponent."
Klitschko has a record of 38 wins and two losses as a professional.
Johnson has managed 22 wins and a draw in his career, with the American ranked sixth by the WBA and WBC. However only nine of his victories have come inside the distance.
"I've worked long and hard for this chance and I'm going to take it," said Johnson, 30, who beat Devin Vargas earlier this year.
"I'm sorry for Klitschko that I have to spoil his Christmas."
