Light heavyweight Juergen Braehmer insists that he will be ready for a rematch with former WBO light heavyweight titleholder Nathan Cleverly in early 2017.

The German southpaw, who is rated No. 10 by THE RING at 175 pounds, was pulled out after the sixth round of a scheduled 12 on Saturday, when he complained of a problem with his right arm.

That injury has now been diagnosed as a minor muscle tear to the forearm and will not require surgery, which means, following a short break, Braehmer, who is also a former WBO titleholder, will be ready for a rematch with the Welshman earlier than expected.

“Fortunately, the injury was not as bad as it first seemed,” said Braehmer (48-3, 35 KOs). “After a suggested period of rest, I will begin my rehabilitation and will be ready for the rematch as soon as possible.”

It was an entertaining contest in Neubrandenburg and Braehmer was leading Cleverly (30-3, 16 KOs) by two points on all three judges’ scorecards.

But promoter Kalle Sauerland believes Braehmer made the correct decision to retire rather than risk further injury, and is now looking forward a rematch with Cleverly, who is rated No. 9 at light heavyweight.

“That was boxing at its best,” said Sauerland. “We had six rounds of great action, but sadly, Juergen was unable to continue. It was a tough call to make but absolutely the right decision. We can now look forward to the second fight between Braehmer and Cleverly.”

*Editor’s note: Cleverly’s victory on Saturday saw him capture a version of the WBA light heavyweight title that is unrecognized by THE RING.

Information courtesy of a press release issued by Sauerland Promotions

Tom Gray is a UK Correspondent/ Editor for RingTV.com and a member of THE RING ratings panel. Follow him on Twitter: @Tom_Gray_Boxing

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