Promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that old foes Nathan Cleverly and Tony Bellew are close to meeting again with a rematch almost agreed.
The pair last met in October 2011 when Cleverly defended his WBO light-heavyweight title in Liverpool. Cleverly picked up a narrow points victory but the animosity between the pair has remained.
Since their last contest, both have moved up to cruiserweight in a bid to win a world title. Bellew beat Julio Cesar Dos Santos in July and he nearly came to blows with Cleverly, who was ringside watching the bout.
A rematch was expected to take place in December but Hearn insists a new date and venue is almost finalised.
“We are almost there,” said Hearn. “Having been originally set for December 6, we are now finalising a new date and venue and I hope to have the deal tied up this week.
“This is a wonderful fight – two great fighters with a genuine rivalry that will keep fans on their toes in and outside the ring. I can’t wait for this fight, and of course the build up!”
Bellew has admitted that he wants to finish Cleverly’s career during the fight, but the Welshman can only see the same outcome as the first fight.
He said: “I’ve always said I will fight him anytime anywhere, the result will be the same as before, a Nathan Cleverly victory.
“The only slight change this time is I doubt he will hear the final bell. I’m excited for the fight, it will capture the publics’ imagination and become a huge event. I’m looking forward to making it 2-0 and moving on to a shot at the title.”
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