The WBA have ordered the management companies of Wladimir Klitschko and Alexander Povetkin to open talks over a fight next year.
Klitschko became the WBA "super" champion following his victory over David Haye in July last year, while Povetkin is currently classified as the "regular" champion.
The WBA declared ahead of the Klitschko v Haye bout that the victor should fight the winner of Povetkin's clash with Ruslan Chagaev last August.
A timescale of 18 months was stipulated, and the WBA now want their two champions to face off before 26 February next year.
Chris Meyer, managing director of Povetkin's representatives, Sauerland Event, said: "We have a four-week period to negotiate terms on the fight and will be in contact with the Klitschko management.
"We worked together for many fights as co-promoters of the Klitschkos. Therefore I am convinced that we will have a professional dialogue.
"However, if we should not be able to reach a voluntary agreement we are prepared to enter a purse bid."
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