Wladimir Klitschko insists he will not “underestimate” opponent Jean-Marc Mormeck in their rescheduled heavyweight clash in Dusseldorf, Germany.

The big fight was set to take place on Saturday but the Ukrainian champion, who is putting his WBA, IBF and WBO belts on the line, was forced to postpone because of surgery to remove a kidney stone.

The Klitschko-Mormeck showdown will now be held on Saturday 3 March at the ESPRIT Arena as Klitschko returns to the ring for the first time since out-pointing Britain’s David Haye in July.

A statement from the 35-year-old read: “I know that I am the favourite in all my fights but I also know that each opponent is motivated to be in the best shape ever when he fights me.

“Mormeck is one of the most experienced fighters I have ever faced. He has had many world title fights, has a very good technique, can take a lot of punches and is very intelligent inside the ring.

“To underestimate him would be a fatal mistake. I am very happy to return to the ESPRIT Arena where I fought against Eddie Chambers. The spectators and the atmosphere for that fight were great and I am sure it will be again this time.”

Meanwhile, Haye has put retirement plans on hold and is currently in negotiations for a possible bout with current WBC heavyweight title holder Vitali Klitschko on the same date as the Klitschko-Mormeck bout.