It was announced that Povetkin's next fight against Irish based Cuban contender Mike Perez (21-1-1, 13 KOs) would take place on 22 May 2015 and serve as a final eliminator for the WBC heavyweight title, held by American boxer Deontay Wilder. Due to the winner potentially being next in line to challenge Wilder, ESPN announced they would air the fight live on ESPN3.com. Povetkin earned a mandatory title shot by knocking out Perez in the first round in devastating fashion. The fight lasted just 91 seconds. Povetkin sent the southpaw Perez down with three right hands. Perez beat the count, then took a beating on the ropes, ending the contest.