Bulgaria's Pulev Vows to Crush Thompson, Klitschko

Bulgarian boxer Kubrat Pulev has vowed to beat Tony Thompson and Wladimir Klitschko and grab the IBF world crown.

Wednesday it was confirmed that the Bulgarian will face USA's Thompson in the eliminator match to the final with Klitschko.

Pulev's comments were provoked by Klitschko's prior estimation that the American will defeat Pulev.

"I know Tony Thompson. He's very good and can beat anyone in the top ten. And I think he will beat Kubrat Pulev," Klitschko said, as reported by boxingscene.com.

"Wladimir better worry about his tough fight coming up against Povetkin. As far Thompson is concerned, I see that Wladimir is hoping that he doesn't have to fight me as the mandatory challenger," retorted Pulev.

"I plan to disappoint him by beating Tony Thompson first, and then when time comes I will deal with Wladimir in the ring," added the Bulgarian.

Early May, Pulev topped IBF's rankings in the heavyweight division.

He is currently IBF International Heavyweight champion (2011) and European Boxing Union heavyweight champion (2012).

Pulev was awarded the prize of Bulgarian athlete of the year for 2012.