From what happened in their first epic clash to what consequences their latest scrap could have on the heavyweight division, we answer the big questions around their upcoming bout…

Why should I watch this fight?

Because it’s two of the hardest heavyweights in the fight game going head to head in a mouthwatering rematch for the WBC interim heavyweight title. In one corner you’ve got Dillian Whyte, the ferocious Brit with a score to settle. In the other you have Alexander Povetkin, the veteran Russian juggernaut and belt holder.

What happened in their first meeting?

You mean what didn’t happen? Held at Matchroom Boxing’s Essex headquarters in August last year, Povetkin stunned Whyte by knocking the Brit out in the fifth round of a tumultuous bout. The dominant Whyte had put Povetkin on the canvas twice, before the Russian scooped himself up to floor his opponent with one of the most clinical uppercuts you’re ever likely to see.

Wasn’t this rematch meant to take place at the end of 2020?

Correct, but plans for the two heavyweights to duke it out again were postponed after Povetkin contracted COVID-19. The fight was then rescheduled to 6 March, before travel restrictions forced another change of date. But now it’s full steam ahead for Saturday 27 March, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Is it now or never for Whyte?

Not quite, but a victory for “The Body Snatcher” will keep his hat in the ring in terms of the heavyweight landscape. With promoter Eddie Hearn recently claiming that Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have signed a two-fight deal, Whyte will be wanting to keep pace with the division’s two top dogs. Beating the seasoned Povetkin would do just that.

Who is the favourite?

Based on how he bossed the first bout, Whyte. But as Povetkin proved spectacularly, you’d be a fool to ever write off the Russian. The man has only ever lost two fights, and they were to Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko. Speak to anyone in the business and they will tell you Povetkin is easily one of the best heavyweights around.

Where is the rematch taking place?

Gibraltar, which has lead to the event being dubbed Rumble On The Rock. Eddie Hearn has promised fans a unique night of action, including a top undercard featuring Tom Cheeseman taking on fellow Brit James Metcalf, while Gibraltar’s government has commemorated the fight by commissioning a special £2 coin which has images of both fighters on it. Nothing says you’ve made it like your face being on actual money.

When is Povetkin v Whyte II on TV?

The event takes place from 6pm on Saturday 27 March on Sky Sports Box Office. It is available to order now and costs £20.95 (HD) or £19.95 (SD). 

How can I order the fight?

Go to Home > On Demand > Live Events. To view your booking, once purchased, go to On Demand > Live Events.

To watch this event, you must have a TiVo^® box, Virgin TV V6 box, powered by TiVo^®, or Virgin TV 360 box. 

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