Thursday 26 May 2016 20:06, UK
Gerald Washington has revealed a world title fight against Deontay Wilder is 'very possible' after the WBC champion was granted a voluntary defence.
Wilder was due to defend his WBC heavyweight belt earlier this month, but his mandatory defence with Alexander Povetkin was called off after the Russian failed a drugs test.
The WBC have confirmed that Wilder can now pick his next opponent and the unbeaten Washington, who like the champion is advised by Al Haymon, has cut short a vacation in Hawaii in the belief that he could receive a title shot.
An official offer is yet to be made for Wilder's next defence, which is expected to be staged this summer, but Washington is ranked in the WBC's top 15 contenders and hopes to face his fellow American.
"It's very possible," Washington told Sky Sports. "I looked at the list and there are only a few guys that he hasn't fought on there, and there are a few guys that he's just fought.
We're both with Al Haymon. It's just a matter of them giving me the call.
"It's a very good possibility. I have to get ready right now. My determination was not to stay in Hawaii any longer, but get back to work, just in case I do get the call. I'll be prepared if I do.
"We're both with Al Haymon. It's just a matter of them giving me the call. I'm right here, I'm able and willing. It's an opportunity that I've been waiting a long time for. It's going to be a big task, but I'm happy to agree it and take it on."
Wilder has stopped 35 of his 36 opponents on a perfect professional record, but Washington has warmed up for a possible shot with a recent points win over Eddie Chambers and insists he could overpower the 'Bronze Bomber'.
"Bring it on, I would love to take on Wilder," said Washington, who has 17 wins and one draw.
"That's my dream to be a world champion and I look forward to taking on any of those guys. I just the love the way it will look and I know it will bring out the best in me.
"He's a big guy and he likes to go at it, but I feel that my athleticism really comes to the fore when I'm up against a big guy, because I'm a lot more agile than a lot of bigger guys. If not, I'm definitely a lot stronger than him.
"I cannot wait for a match-up of that magnitude. It's going to be very exciting for me, for my team, and my gym. I've got to start working now as if I'm preparing for a world title."
