Anthony Joshua To Start 2018 With Joseph Parker Bout

Arrangement on Anthony Joshua’s first bout in 2018 could be described as 80% complete.

Thus far Joseph Parker has been confirmed as the first opponent of the World Heavy Weight champion and the bout could take place in March or April of next year

Both pugilists have also brought their unification belt a step closer after finally agreeing on the purse split.

Parker’s promoter, David Higgins of Duco Events, has confirmed that he has received a contractual offer from Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn that both sides have agreed upon.

Higgins said the purse spilt was the most important part of the negotiations but now that is agreed the rest will flow from there.

Higgins said. “We’re really, really close.

“We’ve agreed the ratio. The Joshua side gave a small concession, and we’ve agreed that the Parker side will get somewhere between 30 and 35 per cent.”

He added that “There’s still a lot to agree, but we’ve agreed the most important thing which is the ratio. The rest should flow from there.”

There are three primary options for locations to hold the fight with Manchester, London, or Cardiff all in the running.

As it is the Nigerian born U.S World heavyweight champion appeared to be in celebration mood as he on Wednesday voiced his wish to become a royal wedding best man to Prince Harry also 2018.

Barring last minute change on the date of the bout, the present world champion has a rough edge of 100 days to prepare for the epoch hit bout.