Paddy Donovan continues his pursuit of a world title at the SAP Arena in Mannheim, Germany on May 15.
The southpaw from Ireland is currently ranked number 3 with the IBF in the welterweight ranks, having come close to winning the belt last year but losing to Lewis Crocker on the cards following their controversial first fight.
Donovan now has a clear path to a trilogy against the Belfast man, who is set to defend his belt against Australia’s Liam Paro next.
Standing in his way is Karen Chukhadzhian, who twice challenged former champion Jaron Ennis as a mandatory, losing both by unanimous decision.
Upon announcing the Ringside Zone show, Donovan said he plans to ‘make his mark’ on away soil.
“I’m coming to Mannheim to win big and move closer to a world title. Karen is tough and experienced, but I have the power and hunger to take the victory and make my mark.”
Chukhadzhian, however, plans to prove his credentials at the top level.
“This final eliminator is my chance to prove I belong at the very top. I’ve faced the best and I’m ready to outwork and outlast Paddy Donovan to earn my shot at the world title.”
The undercard is built around a series of heavyweight clashes, led by a significant step up for unbeaten German prospect Emanuel Odiase, who faces experienced Brit Nick Webb for the WBO European title.
There is also an all-German showdown between Peter Kadiru and Senad Gashi, with the latter’s experience and power posing a real danger, while 6ft 9in southpaw Viktor Jurk returns to action alongside rising Olympic standout Nellie Tiafack.
Away from the heavyweights, Aleksander Okafor takes on fellow unbeaten Elija Ulkuseven for the German cruiserweight title in just his fourth professional bout, and Devrin Gokduman contests the IBF European lightweight strap, rounding out a card stacked with prospects looking to make statements.
