Klitschko opts for Gomez over Hyde

VITALI KLITSCHKO has signed a contract to defend his WBC heavyweight title against mandatory challenger Juan Carlos Gomez instead of Londoner David Haye.

Haye recently agreed terms to fight Klitschko in London this summer having previously expected to take on his younger brother, IBF and WBO champion Wladimir.

But it emerged earlier this week Vitali, 37, had decided to fulfil a mandatory defence against Cuban Gomez with Haye therefore likelier to face Wladimir after all.

And the WBC have confirmed Vitali has signed on to fight Gomez in March.

“The World Boxing Council president, Jose Sulaiman, announced today that the heavyweight world champion, Vitali Klitschko, and official challenger, Juan Carlos Gomez, have reached a definitive agreement, and have signed for their mandatory fight,” a statement said.

The governing body confirmed purse bids — which were due today — were not necessary after both sides agreed terms between themselves.

“Mr Shelly Finkel, on behalf of Klitschko, and Ahmet Oener, on behalf of Gomez, directly had communication with the WBC president to provide him with such information.

“The fight will be held in German locality, within the first two weeks of March 2009.”

Talks are ongoing between Haye’s camp and the Klitschkos about a fight against Wladimir. The Ukrainian is reportedly considering facing the Londoner instead of going through with his anticipated defence against Chris Arreola.

Haye made the permanent move up to heavyweight in November with an explosive stoppage victory over American Monte Barrett.