Thompson vs. Klitschko Not Set Yet

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Friday, March 28, 2008; Page E02

German daily newspaper Bild has reported that Fort Washington heavyweight boxer Tony Thompson will challenge IBF and WBO world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko for Klitschko's titles sometime this summer in Germany, but Thompson denied yesterday the fight is set.

"We're waiting on approval from the IBF [International Boxing Federation], and nothing is concrete until the IBF agrees on provisions," Thompson said. "Then we just wait to kick Klitschko's butt."

The holdup likely stems from a claim by the IBF's No. 1 contender, Alexander Povetkin, that he has a guaranteed right to fight the Klitschko-Thompson winner. Povetkin, the undefeated (15-0) 2004 Olympic gold medal winner, recently beat Eddie Chambers in an IBF title eliminator.

Thompson, 36, who has a record of 31-1, is top ranked by the WBO and has not lost a fight since 2000. His manager, Nate Peake, declined to comment. Klitschko, 32, has a record of 50-3.

-- John Scheinman