Eddie Hearn reveals who he wants AJ to fight next before Tyson Fury showdown

Joshua marked his return to the ring with a decision victory over Jermaine Franklin on Saturday night.

Following Joshua’s triumph over Frankin, the former world champion called out Fury but there is someone Hearn would like AJ to consider fighting first.

‘Some fights are there to be made and you get one chance to do it,’ promoter Hearn told Boxing Social.

‘I think that is potentially the case with Tyson Fury. At the same time, I would still like him to have another fight with [new trainer] Derrick James to improve on what he has been working on.

‘Dillian Whyte is a great fight. He needs to get back in the ring in July [or] August at the latest if he is to get three fights in this year.’

A Battle of Britain bout with Fury would provide Joshua the chance to become a three-time world champion and speaking after his victory over Frankin, AJ said: ‘I try and provide for the fans.

‘I know who they want. They said Tyson Fury; the ball is in his court. I would be honoured to fight for the WBC Heavyweight Championship of the World. 

‘If he’s listening, he knows my promoter; we’ve had dialogue before, so let’s continue this. We ain’t getting any younger.’ 

For now, Hearn would like Joshua to rest, suggesting a fight with Fury could be on the cards for December, should he beat Whyte in the summer.

‘I would like to see him have a little rest then get straight back to Texas with Derrick and try and have an end of summer fight and then try and fight in December,’ Hearn said in his post-fight press conference. ‘It would be great for his career.’

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