The 37-year-old Briton will definitely take on Klitschko in March, and could go on to face the Ukrainian's brother Wladimir and former champion Tyson.

"I want my fans to know that I am intending to defend my WBC title against Vitali Klitschko on 8 March 2003," said Lewis.

"I expect the contract for the Vitali Klitschko fight will be finalised in meetings that will be scheduled during the week of 9 December."

Adrian Ogun, who handles Lewis' business affairs, told reporters in Hamburg last week that he would confirm the date and venue for the fight after finalising television details.

WBC champion Lewis has been guarded about his future since knocking out Tyson in June.

Vitali Klitschko beat veteran American Larry Donald last weekend and has won all but one of his 32 contests.

In 1999, he knocked out Britain's Herbie Hide in two rounds.

The brothers have cultivated an image of being gentlemen and have earned doctorates from a university in the Ukraine.