Nathan Cleverly to face Serge Kovalev?

Light-heavyweight Nathan Cleverly could defend his WBO title against Serge Kovalev in August, according to reports.

Cleverly retained his world title in April with a unanimous points victory over Robin Krasniqi, as he continues to target a unification showdown with Bernard Hopkins.

However, according to the South Wales Argus, the 26-year-old's next bout could be against undefeated Russian Kovalev.

The 30-year-old has won all 21 of his fights, stopping his opponent on all but three occasions, and he would be expected to pose a credible threat to Cleverly's undefeated record.

It is believed that the fight will be announced early next week if Kovalev comes through his bout with Cornelius White on Saturday night.