Thursday 11 January 2018 11:33, UK
Anthony Joshua's simmering rivalry with Joseph Parker will boil over at the first press conference if their unification clash is confirmed, says promoter Eddie Hearn.
Hearn held another meeting with Parker's promoter David Higgins on Wednesday, as they continued to discuss the remaining details of a deal for Joshua to put his WBA 'super' and IBF heavyweight titles at stake against the WBO champion.
Joshua is expected to come face to face with the New Zealander next week, provided that talks go to plan, and they will resume a verbal battle which was sparked by a string of critical comments from Parker and Higgins.
Hearn told Sky Sport News: "I was bantering with David Higgins yesterday. They truly believe they knock Anthony Joshua out. It's not even in question for them.
This could be the first time we've seen the switch of Anthony Joshua, and I'm excited to see it.
"We feel otherwise. You're going to see a lot of fireworks this press conference. David Higgins has got a lot to say for himself, he's a funny character, and Anthony Joshua doesn't like what Joseph Parker has been saying.
"This could be the first time we've seen the switch of Anthony Joshua, and I'm excited to see it."
Joshua will link up with trainer Rob McCracken in Sheffield within the next two weeks to start preparations, while Parker will be based in Las Vegas ahead of the fight, which is set to be staged at a British venue in either March or April.
"AJ wants all the belts and Parker is the perfect fight, the perfect time," said Hearn. "It's a great fight between two undefeated world heavyweight champions and we're close now."
