Albert Sosnowski © AP

Vitali Klitschko to face European Champion Albert Sosnowski in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, on May 29

WBC World Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko defends his title against European Champion Albert Sosnowski from Poland at Veltins-Arena Gelsenkirchen, Germany, on May 29. The arena is the home field of the famous soccer club Schalke 04.

Vitali Klitschko: "I am very happy to have my next fight in Germany again. The arena in Gelsenkirchen and the fans there are very special. I experienced that last year when my brother Wladimir had his fight there in front of 61,000 spectators. The atmosphere was simply electrifying. I saw Sosnowski’s fights on DVD and must admit that he is a very experienced, quick and tough opponent. He will do anything to get my belt but I promise that this is not going to happen.”

31-year-old Albert Sosnowski, who was born in Warsaw (Poland), lives in Brentwood, England. "The Dragon“ Sosnowski turned professional in 1998 and since then the 6'2½'' tall has an outstanding fight record of 45 wins (27 KOs), two defeats and one draw.

Last December, Sosnowski won the European Heavyweight Championship against former champion Paolo Vidoz from Italy. 2008 he knocked out former world title challenger and Tyson conqueror Danny Williams. Sosnowski was scheduled to defend his European title against Olympic champion Audley Harrison in London on April, 9, but cancelled it for the chance to fight Vitali Klitschko instead.

Albert Sosnowski: "A dream comes true. Because of the Harrison fight I am already in training and suddenly comes the once-in-a-lifetime chance to fight Klitschko. I want to thank him and his team to give me that opportunity which I will definitely take. For me, Klitschko is already over the hill. I know that I am the underdog for everybody, but I tell you, Klitschko will regret that he picked me. Many Polish and Germans with Polish roots live in the Gelsenkirchen area and I hope that they will support me. I will be the first Polish Heavyweight Champion of the World!“

It is Klitschko’s 12th World Championship fight. His impressive record is 39 wins (37 KOs) and two defeats due to injury.

In Germany, the fight between World Champion Vitali Klitschko and European Champion Albert Sosnowski will be broadcasted live and exclusively on RTL.