Weight loss for powerlifting

[exter]

Hey,
About me:
-24 year old
-5'9"
-215lbs
-pretty chubby, visually would say about 25% bodyfat
-450/345/550 squat(with wraps)/bench/deadlift

I'm currently trying to gain a small amount of weight and increase my lifts. However, in about a couple of months I want to focus on losing weight.
Ideally, I would like to get to about 15% bodyfat (fairly lean, but not ripped or anything) to be more competitive in powerlifting and also to look better.
Since I'm already somewhat strong, I'm afraid my lifts will go down if I do so. What's the best strategy to lose about 25lbs while preserving strength, how much time should it take ?

[Robert Santana]

Getting to 15% bodyfat will likely lead a reduction in strength because you won't have the same leverage. You will have to lose the weight, go back to maintenance calories, and then train at the new body weight and work your lifts back up. Likely 1-2 year process and no guarantee that you'll be competitive for the sport at the new bodyweight.