• Vitali Klitschko v Manuel Charr

Haye blow as Vitali v Charr confirmed

ESPN staff
July 2, 2012
Manuel Charr is unbeaten from 21 fights © Getty Images
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David Haye's hopes of facing Vitali Klitschko this year - or indeed ever - have receded with the news that the WBC heavyweight champion will defend his title against Manuel Charr on September 8.

The Klitschko v Charr fight had been mooted for a few weeks, but was plunged into doubt late last month when Klitschko said no contract had been signed.

That seemed to open the door slightly for Haye, who claims he agreed to meet Dereck Chisora on July 14 partly because it was considered an eliminator for a battle with Klitschko.

However, the door has now seemingly been slammed in his face for the time being. Charr, who was born in Beirut but fights out of Germany, is unbeaten with 21 wins and 11 knockouts - but Klitschko represents a big leap in quality.

The month after the Charr contest at the Olimpiyski sports arena in Moscow, Klitschko will lead the UDAR party in Ukraine's parliamentary elections.

He will decide on his boxing future after the election, meaning the Charr clash could well be his last.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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