Blue-chip heavyweight prospect David Price, a 2008 Olympic bronze medalist for Great Britain, is poised to take the biggest step up in competition of his pro career by facing two-time world title challenger Tony Thompson.

Frank Maloney, Price's promoter, announced that the scheduled 12-round bout will take place Feb. 23 (WealthTV) at the 8,000-seat Echo Arena in Price's hometown of Liverpool.

"This is the right fight at the right time for David and one where a win will propel him even higher," Maloney said. "Thompson still has ambition and I am certain that he will come to win and (try to) score a major upset."

Although Maloney announced the fight, Thompson, 41, of Washington, D.C., said the deal is not finalized, but that he wants the fight.