As reported last week, the European Boxing Union announced that heavyweights Alexander Dimitrenko (32-1, 21 KOs) and Kubrat Pulev (15-0, 7 KOs) would battle for the vacant EBU heavyweight title. The belt was vacated when champion Robert Helenius had to undergo shoulder surgery, which is going to require several months of rehabilitation.

For Pulev, this is the first tough test of his entire career. Promoter by Sauerland Event, Pulev is one of their rising heavyweight prospects. Dimitrenko, experienced and dangerous, is promoted by Universum. Recently, Dimitrenko and Universum exchanged words in the media. Whether Dimitrenko withdraws from the bout is unknown, but Pulev is ready to fight.

"It's a great honor. In 2008, I managed to become the amateur champion of Europe. Now I want to repeat the same feat [as a pro]. Dimitrenko is a strong opponent, but I will do everything to beat him," Pulev said.