Tyson Fury-Wladimir Klitschko rematch set for July 9 in Manchester
Britain's Tyson Fury (25-0, 18 KOs) will defend his world heavyweight titles in a rematch with Wladimir Klitschko (64-4, 54 KOs) on July 9 at the Manchester Arena.
Fury defeated Klitschko by unanimous decision to claim the WBA, WBO and IBF belts in Dusseldorf, Germany last November, ending the Ukrainian's 11-year unbeaten run and his historic 9½-year title reign during which he made 18 successful defences.
Klitschko has exercised his contractual right to an immediate rematch and after lengthy negotiations between both camps, a deal has now been done.
"If he doesn't do something different he is on for another hiding," said Fury.
"He has to come and try and fight. He couldn't fight me first time with his A-game so he won't on his second.
"It wasn't very important for the fight to be in Manchester but it was very important that I wasn't going back to Germany.
"I wouldn't go back, end of. I wouldn't get a decision. It's in England. Wherever it was I wasn't bothered.
"As I am the gypsy king I don't have a hometown. Wherever I want to go is my hometown ."
Klitschko said: "Boxing fans worldwide will watch this international mega-event, and I'm looking forward to coming out victorious against Tyson Fury and regaining my heavyweight titles."
Fury had to give up his IBF title because of the rematch, and the belt has since been won by countryman Anthony Joshua, who claimed the title by stopping American Charles Martin in the second round last Saturday in London.