NATHAN Cleverly will defend his WBA world light-heavyweight title against Badou Jack at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas later this month, it has now been confirmed.

Cleverly’s promoter Eddie Hearn revealed earlier this week that terms for the Welshman’s first defence had been agreed but the fight needed to be sanctioned by the WBA.

They have now given Cefn Fforest’s Cleverly the green light to face Sweden’s Jack on the undercard of the Floyd Mayweather-Conor McGregor blockbuster on Saturday, August 26.

However, if Cleverly wins, he must then defend his belt against interim champion Dmitry Bivol.

Cleverly, 30, defeated Juergen Braehmer last October to pick up the WBA crown, while Jack steps up a weight after a two-year reign as WBC world super-middleweight champion.

“This is a fight I have wanted ever since Badou Jack moved to light-heavyweight and I’m delighted to fight in Vegas on an event like this,” said Cleverly.

“I’ve trained long and hard for this fight and I’m ready to be let off the leash.

“This is the biggest fight of my career so far and I’m going to do a number on Badou Jack on August 26.”

The 33-year-old Jack, who boasts a record of 21 wins, one defeat and two draws from 24 outings, added: “I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m excited about getting another shot at a world title.

“To be a part of this event and fighting on this card is historic. Nothing beats it. I’m excited to get back in the ring. I’m getting ready to take that belt and win a title in my second weight class.

“The biggest difference between past training camps and preparing for this fight is the fact that I was training to get the weight down, now I’m training to build muscle and perfect my boxing strategy.

“This will be a tough fight, but I don’t see any issues getting through it. I feel confident and fans can expect a win by knockout or decision.

“He’s not leaving with that belt, it’s staying right here in Las Vegas.”

Promoter Hearn said: “I’m delighted to get this fight made. It’s a great fight on a huge night of boxing.

"Cleverly and Jack have styles that will gel into an all-action fight, and we are confident our man will be returning with the belt.”

The show will be screened live on Sky Sports Box Office.