Friday 20 April 2018 00:08, UK
Dillian Whyte is set to return this summer as promoter Eddie Hearn continues to discuss terms for an IBF final eliminator against Kubrat Pulev.
The Brixton heavyweight has been ordered by the IBF to face Pulev, with the winner becoming mandatory challenger for Anthony Joshua's IBF belt.
Hearn admitted that Whyte had been a little premature by tweeting out fight details of July 21 at The O2, but hopes to secure a date in that month.
"There is talk of Dillian Whyte boxing in July," Hearn exclusively told Sky Sports. "The 21st is a potential date for Dillian Whyte, but still, we have to look to agree terms with Kubrat Pulev and [promoter] Kalle Sauerland, and his team. That will be an eliminator for Anthony Joshua.
"Dillian Whyte is back from his rest, his hand has healed up, and he wants to go again. Every chance Dillian will box in July."
Whyte is already the No 1 ranked contender to challenge WBC champion Deontay Wilder, who is currently negotiating a massive unification clash with Joshua.
Matchroom Boxing boss Hearn believes Whyte deserves the chance to test himself at the top level if he defeats Pulev.
"Dillian Whyte is right up there," said Hearn. "He's No 1 in the WBC, he's got a fight to become No 1 in the IBF.
"He's five or six with the WBA, same with the WBO. He's a guy who is on the verge of a heavyweight world title shot and he can do it. I believe he can win.
"If Deontay Wilder doesn't man up, and fight Anthony Joshua, there's Dillian Whyte waiting for him as well, if he wants to make a few quid.
"Dillian Whyte is there, he's game, he will fight anyone, and we're looking for a summer return."