Klitschko is keen to get a rematch against Lennox Lewis

Klitschko strengthened his claims for a rematch with the champion with a dominant display in the non-title bout.

The Ukrainian sent Johnson to the canvas with a barrage of blows.

Johnson rose to his feet but looked apprehensive, and his fears proved justified as Klitschko finished him off with a cracking combination.

"Hello Lennox, I know you're watching," said Klitschko after his victory.

"You have been a great champion but I'm ready to beat you."

Klitschko was leading on all three scorecards when a bad cut ended his contest with Lewis in the sixth round last June.

The 32-year-old Ukrainian has called for a rematch ever since against a man scheduled to fight Lewis before a shoulder injury allowed Klitschko to step in.

This bout was billed as a final eliminator for the WBC title still held by the Briton.

Much-hyped Italian-American Joe Mesi retained his unbeaten record but was far from convincing in gaining a majority decision over Monte Barrett on the undercard.