The World Boxing Association (WBA) has announced that they will make a decision on Thursday whether they are going to sanction the proposed mega-fight between IBF heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and former unified champion Wladimir Klitschko or not at the Manchester Arena on December 10.
Wednesday was the deadline given by Eddie Hearn for WBA to announce their decision, which has passed and now everyone is waiting for the WBA president Gilberto Mendoza’s announcement in the next 24 hours.
Mendoza said: “The members of the committee have a deadline until (Wednesday) to respond.”
Whatever the decision may be, Hearn has already stated that Joshua’s will defend his title on the given date “regardless of if it’s Klitschko or not”.
It is believed both camps of Klitschko and Joshua have already lined up alternative fights in case WBA’s decision is not in their favor. There are reports that the former WBA, WBO, Ring magazine and lineal heavyweight champion could face off against Australian Lucas Browne for the vacant WBA title. Another option for the Ukrainian is the New Zealander Joseph Parker for the WBO heavyweight crown.
Eddie Hearn is also looking at other options as there are doubts about AJ-Klitschko now happening.
Hearn told Sky Sports: “We are beginning discussions with other opponents now while crossing our fingers that Klitschko takes the fight, regardless of how many belts are on the line.”
Hearn hoped the 40-year-old will not take an easier option and fight in Germany.
“In an ideal world, there would be as many belts as possible on the line, but I hope he takes up the challenge rather than a soft touch in Germany,” added Hearn.
