The long-awaited light-heavyweight clash between Tommy Oosthuizen and Ryno Liebenberg will take place on March 21, promoter Rodney Berman announced on Monday.

"It's no secret that Oosthuizen and Liebenberg have long wanted to get into the same ring," Berman said after former IBO super-middleweight champion Oosthuizen retained his unbeaten record with a victory over Russian journeyman Denis Grachev.

"Both Oosthuizen and Liebenberg have their army of loyal supporters and they have been clamouring for this fight.

"I have not put it on previously because their careers looked to be heading in different directions."

Berman said circumstances had changed with both boxers looking for impressive victories to get their careers back on track.

Liebenberg needed a victory after his recent defeat against the formidable Eleider Alaverez in Monte Carlo, while Oosthuizen needed to show he still had what it takes to be a world champion.

"I had previously believed that Tommy would have too much skill for Ryno, but he was all over the place for much of his 11th round tko win on Saturday night and if Liebenberg lands as many blows as Grachev it will be all over.

"Ryno punches a lot harder than the Russian. Tommy has all the skill in the world, but he let himself down against Grachev after his long lay-off."

Oosthuizen, the one-time golden boy of South African boxing, who was renowned for his dancing feet and snappy punching power, looked ponderous in his movement and fought more like a heavyweight.

Berman also announced both Johnny Muller and Kevin Lerena would feature on his March 21 bill.