By Michele Emrick
Wladamir Klitschko has come to terms with Australia’s Alex Leapai, clearing the way for him to defend his multiple world titles this April in Germany.
Both sides had been given 30 days to negotiate a deal and avoid a purse bid, which had been scheduled for January 19 if an agreement had not been able to be reached.
“Wladimir Klitschko and Alex Leapai reached an agreement to fight in April. The WBO was informed of this news this morning, confirmed Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcarcel, WBO President.
Klitschko (61-3, 51 KO’s) is considered by most to be the best heavyweight in the world, and to be the true lineal champion in the division. He has held a version of the title for almost eight years now. It was in April of 2006 when he took the IBF title from Chris Byrd by knockout in a rematch of their earlier fight.
Since then, he has defended his title an impressive 15 times, picking up the WBO, WBA, and IBO titles in the process. The last time he competed was in October, when he took an easy unanimous decision win from Alexander Povetkin.
In Alex Leapai (30-4-3, 24 KO’s), Klitschko meets a very unlikely contender for his crown. It took a huge upset win over the previously undefeated Denis Boytsov in Germany to earn Lepai his shot.
The date and venue for the fight have yet to be announced. But it is known that it will take place in Germany, where the majority of Klitschko’s career fights have taken place. He has not made an appearance inside the United States in his last 13 fights.
