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Home » ‘Alexander Povetkin able to contest WBC titles from Dec 6, will be restored to ratings in January’

‘Alexander Povetkin able to contest WBC titles from Dec 6, will be restored to ratings in January’

According to an update by Ryabinskiy, Povetkin’s life ban for doping has been overturned and the ex-heavyweight champion will be rated by the WBC in the New Year.

The news comes following an eleven-month fight by Ryabinskiy to clear his fighter’s name.

“I promised that we will achieve justice for Povetkin,” said Ryabinskiy.

“So, a few months ago we achieved justification (rankings) in all organizations except the WBC. Now, the WBC sent us a letter today stating that Povetkin, suspended for life since December 6, can officially hold fights with the WBC, and from January, he will be returned to the official rating!”

Going a step further, Ryabinskiy added: “In fact, he was found innocent!

“It was acknowledged that the Ostarin was not going to be taken by Povetkin (and got into the body with a food supplement).

“This is the first time in the history of boxing when a boxer gets out of these such problems In America or Europe.

“A ban would have meant an unequivocal end to his career, but we do not leave and will fight on,” he said.

Povetkin had failed a drug test prior to a scheduled fight with Deontay Wilder back in May 2016, leaving the American green and gold belt holder to hastily arrange a defense against Chris Arreola in his place.

A fight with Bermane Stiverne was then scrapped when the Ostarin was flagged by the WBC Clean Boxing Program leaving Povetkin’s reputation in tatters.

After missing out on a lucrative payday, Wilder would be hard pushed to agree another fight despite the ruling, whilst Povetkin is said to be looking down the WBA or WBO route in his search for another chance at glory anyway.

Povetkin is confirmed as fighting Christian Hammer on December 15.