Kauto Star will face a maximum of 11 rivals in the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton next Tuesday.
Paul Nicholls' chaser earned a plethora of superlatives in his three runs this season and is currently rated as the best chaser in Britain since Desert Orchid.
Second favourite is the Nicky Richards-trained Monet's Garden, who represent the stable who won the King George twice in the 1990s with One Man.
Racing Demon is set to take his chance for Henrietta Knight, who has also won the race twice in recent years with Best Mate and Edredon Bleu.
Exotic Dancer will bid to bridge the gap between handicap and Grade One company after winning the boylesports.com and Paddy Power Gold Cups at Cheltenham for Jonjo O'Neill.
Monkerhostin, second behind Kicking King 12 months ago, will be out to go one better for Philip Hobbs. Recent gamble Yes Sir stands his ground for Peter Bowen, who also has Ballycassidy engaged. L'Ami, Ollie Magern, Commercial Flyer, Puntal and Mister McGoldrick complete the list of acceptors.
