Shift in Focus
Anthony Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, has revealed a change in plans for AJ's next fight. Talks with Deontay Wilder have stalled, leading Hearn to look towards Filip Hrgovic as an alternative opponent.
Hrgovic's Position
Hrgovic, the IBF mandatory challenger, was next in line to challenge for Oleksandr Usyk's title. However, Usyk has signed for a four-belt undisputed fight with Tyson Fury, which pushes Hrgovic's mandatory position aside.
Interim Title Shot
If Usyk or Fury vacate the title, Hrgovic could inherit the strap. Alternatively, he might be called into an "interim" title shot, guaranteeing him a chance at the full version in the future.
Wallin Throws a Spanner in the Works
Swede Otto Wallin's recent win against Murat Gassiev puts him second in the IBF rankings, potentially making him Hrgovic's likely opponent in a final eliminator or interim title bout.
Looking for Alternatives
If talks with Wilder cannot be revived, Hearn sees Hrgovic as a viable alternative for Joshua. Hearn acknowledges that the Wilder fight is bigger but considers the Hrgovic fight to come with a world title, making it a priority.
Hearn stated, "That will always take priority, but we'll have to see what plays out. Again, we're only hearing that it's a two-way rematch Usyk-Fury, which is disappointing, but we'll see."
