Eddie Hearn is making some significant moves behind the scenes.
The rematch between Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko seems to be taking major steps forward. Joshua’s promoter has contacted the IBF on behalf of Joshua and requested a special exception. Meaning that IBF mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev will have to wait at least until 2018 for his shot against Joshua.
IBF President Daryl Peoples confirmed in a recent interview with World Boxing News that they have been contacted by Hearn.
“Last Thursday [May 11th], the IBF received an exception request from Matchroom on behalf of Anthony Joshua. I’m expecting a reply from Sauerland on behalf of Pulev either today or early tomorrow,” revealed Peoples.
Peoples hinted that there may be a chance they will grant Joshua the special exception.
“The Board will consider the exception request during the convention next week and determine what actions the IBF will take as soon as a decision has been made,” told Peoples.
While there hasn’t been an official announcement just yet, the people in the know believe the rematch will happen in late October. Klitschko should probably give his official answer in the coming days just because the money is just too good to pass. Also, Hearn has been looking at possible locations for the fight in the U.S such as Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Other rumored places are Cardiff, Dubai and even China.