 On 6 July 2011 negotiations for Chagaev to fight Russian heavyweight contender Alexander Povetkin (21-0, 15 KOs) for the vacant title began between Sauerland, who promote Povetkin, and Chagaev's promoter Universum.Two days later, Povetkin's trainer confirmed the fight would take place on 27 August.At the time of the bout, Chagaev was ranked No.4 heavyweight contender by "The Ring", while Povetkin was ranked No.3 contender by the same publication.