By Luke Furman

Both fighters are looking for redemption in Russia on Friday. Heavyweights Alexander Povetkin (26-1, 18KOs) and Manuel Charr (26-1, 15KOs) will collide for the vacant WBC International heavyweight title at Luzhniki in Moscow, Russia.

The last time Charr fought in Russia, in September of 2012, he lost to Vitali Klitschko by way of a fourth round stoppage due to a cut. He's won five straight since then. Povetkin has been inactive since an October 2013 twelve round decision loss to Wladimir Klitschko, which also took place in Russia. Both of their defeats too place at the Olympic Stadium.

"Alexander is very strong and a good fighter. The fight will be difficult and very interesting, because we're both fighters who want to put on a good show of boxing. But my coach has done a very good job in preparing me for this fight. I am 100% ready and confident of victory. And then Andrew Ryabinsky will organize my next fight. I feel very good in Moscow - despite the fact that I lost here to Vitali Klitschko. There is a very nice atmosphere in Moscow," Charr said.

Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org