Calzaghe considers Belfast venue

The fight, set for 18 March, is subject to the approval of the WBO and Peter Kohl who manages the organisation's interim champion, Mario Veit.

"Magee's a good fighter and he'll come to fight," said Calzaghe.

"He's been calling me out for a while, but I'm the best out there and will still be after I knock him out."

Veit is next in line to challenge for Calzaghe's title, but the champion knocked out the German inside a round in 2001.

Veit seems more likely to bide his time, with the Welshman expected to move up to light heavyweight later in the year.

I can assure you that this will be Calzaghe's last defence Brian Magee

Magee is a southpaw with a record of 23 wins (16 KOs), the only blemish on his record a points defeat to former Calzaghe victim Robin Reid last June.

"This will be a massive fight-night in Belfast and the atmosphere will be incredible," said Magee, who has a vociferous following in the Northern Ireland capital.

"Calzaghe is a great champion and has been number one for a long time with 15 defences of his title but I can assure you that this will be his last defence."

But Calzaghe says he will relish the vibrant atmosphere.

"The Kings Hall is a legendary venue where all the great Irish fighters have fought from Rinty Monaghan, Dave McCauley, Ray Close to Barry McGuigan and I'm honoured to follow in their footsteps," said the champion.

"I know the Belfast public, like the Welsh, are passionate about their sport so I'm expecting them to come out and support their man and make it a great night."

Chief support on the bill will be WBU welterweight champion Eamonn Magee, making his return after a brutal street assault.