PRESS RELEASE: Heavyweight hopeful Alexander Povetkin has hit Berlin to continue his preparations for the highly-anticipated IBF eliminator against Eddie Chambers. The duo will lock horns in Germany´s capital on January 26 to determine the next mandatory challenger for IBF champion Wladimir Klitschko. "I am in great shape," unbeaten Povetkin (14-0, 11 KOs) said after his arrival at Tegel airport. "The training in my home city of Tschechow has gone very well. I´ll be perfectly prepared for Chambers."

It has taken the 28-year-old less than 15 fights to make himself a name in professional boxing. The 2004 Olympic gold medal winner, who also triumphed at the World and European Amateur championships, impressively destroyed Chris Byrd in the first leg of the four-way box-off. Prior to his 11th-round TKO victory, he had outboxed Larry Donald in June. Donald will be among Povetkin´s sparring partners, just like former EU champion Michael Sprott.

Meanwhile, the Russian star refused to accept the favourite role. "Everything can happen in such an eliminator, especially in the heavyweight division," Povetkin stated. "But I will be on alert. I am keen to take the last step and finally get in the ring with Klitschko." Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer certainly fancies Povetkin´s chances. "Alexander is the next big thing in the heavyweight division. He has the potential to be world champion. I am sure his fight against Chambers will be a true highlight."

On a sidenote, it´s the first time HBO broadcasts a non-Klitschko fight out of Germany