Vitali Klitschko will defend his WBC heavyweight title against mandatory challenger Odlanier Solis in Cologne on March 19, it has been confirmed.
The Cuban exile defeated veteran Ray Austin in an eliminator last month and with few other potential opponents out there for Klitschko, a deal was always likely to be made.
Solis is no stranger to the German public, having fought there nine times as a professional after joining the paid ranks in 2007.
The 30-year-old has a 17-0 record with 12 stoppages, and although he looked sluggish against Austin could be one of the few to ruffle Klitschko's feathers as he approaches his 40th birthday.
"Solis is an experienced, quick and uncomfortable fighter," said Klitschko in a statement. "I will not underestimate him."
Now based in Florida, Solis has been talked up in the American press as one of the few heavyweights to take over the Klitschko brothers' mantle when they retire.
But although he has few 'names' on his CV, Solis gets an early chance to prove them right.
"Vitali has been choosing weak opponents for years. But that is finished now. I will beat him, take his belts and leave Cologne as champion," said Solis
