Povetkin was due to challenge Wilder in Russia until the fight collapsed over a failed drug test which was subsequently unproven, with the former Olympic champion being reinstated into the rankings.
A legal battle then began between Ryabinskiy and Wilder’s representatives, which the former now claims has gone in his favor.
Ryabinskiy’s team released a statement to WBN relaying the following information:
“Mr. Ryabinskiy’s attorney succeed in getting a favorable decision in a US court, ruled over a long court proceedings with the representatives of WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.
“New York Federal District Court refused Wilder on all accounts, and awarded Mr. Ryabinskiy’s side USD 4.3 mln — funds that were part of the interpleader case after the fight between Alexander Povetkin and Wilder was cancelled in May of 2016.
“The decision can be appealed during 30 days, however, attorneys have already filed a demand for the return of funds.
“Attorneys will take a careful look at the 48-page decision, planning out next actions – evidently in court also, as parties are still to battle it out over the multi-million reputational claims.
I said it once, and I will say it again, anyone that wants to offend or insult my guys, will have to pay for it — said Ryabinskiy.
“Povetkin-Wilder fight was cancelled after a positive sample test of the Russian, tracing meldonium.
“However, later Alexander Povetkin was declared not guilty, and it was found that he did not take meldonium after it official prohibition that started January 1, 2016.”
