Welsh light-heavyweight Nathan Cleverly has admitted that he is eager to perform on a "major platform" as he looks to earn another opportunity to fight for a world title.
After losing to Sergey Kovalev in August 2013, Cleverly moved up to cruiserweight, but after fading badly during his defeat to Tony Bellew, the decision was made to return to 175lbs.
An immediate shot at WBA title holder Juergen Braehmer had been touted, but Cleverly has agreed terms to face big-punching Fonfara, who beat Julio Cesar Chavez Jr earlier this year, on October 16 in Chicago.
The 28-year-old told Matchroom Sport's official website: "This is a major platform for me to prove that I am more than capable of becoming world champion again.
"If I beat Fonfara, it's a doorway fight to the world title and establishing myself as one of the best light-heavyweights once again.
"Fonfara is a good fighter. He's tall, has power and has moved up through the levels in his career. I am looking forward to coming over to Chicago and I am very confident that our styles will blend well for a really exciting fight."
Cleverly has 29 victories from 31 professional outings, while Fonfara has only lost three times in 30 bouts in the paid ranks.
