Makhmudov will face Wallisch

rival Arslanbek Mahmudov (15-0, 14 KOs) should eventually become Michael Wallisch (23-5, 16 KOs) at the evening, which will be held on December 16 in Canada. The Russian, who competes under the Canadian flag, was previously supposed to cross gloves with Rafael Akpejori.

For Makhmudov, who is promoted by the promotional organization Top Rank, this will be the third performance this year. Wallish returned to the ring in May after losing to Murat Gassiev last year.

At the recently concluded WBC convention, Makhmudov (No. 4 in the heavyweight rankings) was tasked with defending the WBC silver belt with Zhan Kosobutsky, which should be the next fight of the Russian Lion after the December fight. If Mahmudov refuses, he risks losing his trophy.