Anthony Joshua ‘almost done’ for next fight against Jermaine Franklin in London on April 1 | boxing news
Anthony Joshua is ‘almost done’ for a fight with Jermaine Franklin, with US Promotions hoping to close the fight ‘soon’.
Franklin has become the preferred opponent for Joshua’s next heavyweight fight on April 1 at the O2 Arena in London.
Franklin’s promoter Dmitri Salita confirmed to Sky Sports that negotiations are “going in the right direction” and hopes to reach a final deal for the Joshua fight.
“Jermaine is a world-class heavyweight from Michigan in America who is on the verge of a big win at home,” Salita said.
“We look forward to closing the deal at the finish line to help Jermaine realize his lifelong dream.”
Franklin made his UK debut in November, losing a hard-fought decision to Dillian Whyte, the 29-year-old’s first defeat in a record 22 fights.
Australian Demsey McKean was also on Joshua’s shortlist
Australia’s Demsey McKean and Sweden’s Otto Wallin, two left-handed contenders, have been linked with Joshua in the past.
But the British star appeared to prefer the orthodox fighting style of the 6ft 2in Franklin, who was defeated by masterful southpaw Alexander Usyk.
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Tyson Fury says he is “ready to rock and roll” against Oleksandr Usyk and hopes the fight will take place “in the next few months”.
Joshua’s second world title came to an end with a unanimous decision loss to Usyk in September 2021, and the Ukrainian retained his WBA, IBF and WBO belts in a split rematch. last August.
Negotiations for Usyk to share the ring with WBC king Tyson Fury in the coming months are at the fore.
Sky Sports
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