(Sports Network) - Vitali Klitschko will defend his WBC heavyweight crown against unbeaten American Chris Arreola on September 26 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

"Chris Arreola is one the strongest opponents I can think of," said Klitschko in a press release by the fighter's management. "He is young, unbeaten, very confident and has a hard punch on his side. I will not underestimate him but no doubt, I will leave California as the world champion again."

Arreola, a 28-year-old native of Los Angeles, is the top-ranked contender by the WBC and holds the NABF portion of the crown. He last fought on April 11, notching a fourth-round knockout of Jameel McCline, and is undefeated in 27 career fights with 24 knockouts.

"It is the chance of a lifetime to have a fight in my hometown against the best heavyweight of the world," said Arreola. "Truly, a dream comes true."

Klitschko (37-2, 36 KOs) has won his last five bouts since a loss to Lennox Lewis on June 21, 2003. He beat Corrie Sanders at the Staples Center on April 24, 2004 to claim the WBC title and has made three successful defenses since.

"I am so happy to fight in LA again," added Klitschko. "The 2003 fight against Lennox Lewis was my international breakthrough and just one year later I became WBC champion for the first time against Corrie Sanders in that arena."

The 38-year-old Ukrainian last fought on March 21, earning a ninth-round TKO of Juan Carlos Gomez.

"Klitschko's last opponents did not have the class I have," Arreola stated. "I will take the advantage and grab Vitali's belt."

The fight will be broadcast in the United States on HBO.



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