Eddie Hearn says reports of an agreement for Anthony Joshua to fight YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul next month are premature.
Hearn also revealed that Turki Al Sheikh, head of the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia, has promised to hold the eagerly awaited bout between Joshua and Tyson Fury in 2026.
Although the former world heavyweight champion will need a warm-up fight after his 14-month hiatus, Hearn insisted an agreement has yet to be reached between Paul and Joshua.
When asked if the Paul fight would happen, Hearn told BBC 5 Live: “Maybe. Everyone rushed last night. There were some talks. Our focus is on 2026. We have a big fight planned for February and hopefully a big fight against Tyson Fury next summer.”
“We might run out in 2025 and get into a low-key fight somewhere. If it ruins Mr. Paul’s career and makes tens of millions in the process, maybe. Nothing is certain yet.”
Speaking to talkSPORT, Hearn added: “Next year, we will fight in February and then we will fight Tyson Fury if Turki Al-Sheikh implements his plans and strategies.
“We spoke to him in London this week. Everything we do with Anthony Joshua will be according to the guidance of Turki Al-Sheikh. He has given us amazing opportunities. The game plan will be drawn up with him.”
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“It is Turki Al-Sheikh’s responsibility to talk to Tyson Fury and try to get the deal done. I cannot tell you that we are fighting Tyson Fury.
“What I can tell you is that Turki Al-Sheikh told us: I will make AJ vs. Tyson Fury. This is your deal. Will you accept?”
“We kissed. Is the fight over? No. Because I don’t know where he is with Tyson Fury. All I know is that he hasn’t failed to deliver the fight yet.”
