Lewis to defend heavyweight title in Johannesburg

World heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis will make his next title defence in Johannesburg, not Las Vegas as expected.

Lewis's manager Frank Maloney told BBC Radio 5-Live on Thursday that the bout against American Hasim Rahman will take place at Carnival City on April 21.

Lewis holds the IBF and WBC titles. Rahman, the fourth-ranked IBF contender, has won 34 of his 36 fights, 28 by knockout.

The bout was initially announced last month, with Las Vegas the likely venue, but Maloney said Lewis was delighted to be fighting in Africa for the first time.

"Nelson Mandela invited Lennox to fight there and Lennox has great respect for Nelson Mandela," he said.

"It was a good offer and when it came in it was accepted by the Lewis team.

"Lennox wants to show his talents to the world and fight in different places."

The fight is being staged by South African promoter Rodney Berman and the final details should be resolved over the next few days.

Lewis last fought on November 11 in Las Vegas when he easily outpointed New Zealander David Tua.