Klitschko to make Johnson defence

Vitali Klitschko beat American Chris Arreola in September

Ukraine's Vitali Klitschko will defend his WBC heavyweight title for the third time this year when he faces unbeaten American Kevin Johnson on 12 December.

The 38-year-old beat Carlos Gomez in March and Chris Arreola in September, and will meet Johnson in Switzerland.

Johnson is unbeaten in 23 fights and has nine knockouts to his name.

"He is technically much better than my last opponent. I can't underestimate Johnson but I have no doubt I will keep the WBC belt," said Klitschko.

Klitschko, whose brother Wladimir holds the WB0 heavyweight title, stopped Arreola in the 10th round of their bout in September and has lost just twice in 40 fights with 37 knockouts.

On 12 December 12, there will finally be an American heavyweight champion again. I am sorry for ruining Klitschko's Christmas holidays Kevin Johnson

"I am in excellent shape and had a perfect preparation and fight in Los Angeles (against Arreola)," said Klitschko.

"I can hardly wait to step into the ring again. Kevin Johnson is very dangerous, he already had 23 fights as a pro and is undefeated."

Johnson is currently rated sixth with the WBC and boasts a win against former WBA title-holder Bruce Seldon on his record.

"I've been working hard for this chance and I will definitely take it," said Johnson.

"On 12 December, there will finally be an American heavyweight champion again. I am sorry for ruining Klitschko's Christmas holidays."

The pair will fight at the PostFinance-Arena in Bern.