Anthony Joshua vs Kubrat Pulev could take place in front of 2,000 fans in UK as part of ‘funky’ Eddie Hearn plan – The Sun

ANTHONY JOSHUA'S fight against Kubrat Pulev could take in place in front of just 2,000 fans in the UK as part of Eddie Hearn's "funky" plans for boxing's restart.

Joshua's heavyweight bout against IBF mandatory challenger Pulev was set to take place at Tottenham's new stadium next month.

But coronavirus KO'd that plan and a new date and venue has yet to be announced with much of the sporting world still on hold.

There have also been rumours that Joshua and his Matchroom team are hoping Pulev steps aside so their man can face Tyson Fury in an undisputed heavyweight clash.

But Hearn expressed no such desire when talking on the Pug and Copp Boxing Show podcast.

Rather, he said he is hungry to still get the fight done and has not totally ruled out the chance of it taking place in the UK.

The Matchroom boss said: "We've had approaches from the Middle East, Croatia, China as well.

"There is also the possibility that some kind of crowds could open up sooner than a stadium.

"So could you do 2,000, 5,000, 10,000? Maybe we could something funky in the UK with a small, select crowd of people.

"We're open to options. I had a call with AJ and he's in great spirits. He's accepted 2020 will only see one fight, which for him is a bit frustrating.

"The sole ambition now of 2020 is get the Pulev fight away, win that and in the meantime the Fury fight signed for two fights next year."

Pulev – who has been accused of cheating by his ex-girlfriend – recently claimed WBA, WBO and IBF king Joshua is running "scared" of him.

He said: "I can't understand why we are still postponing instead of fixing a date and venue and getting to work? I can't wait to win this fight.

"A year has passed, and they always have a reason to postpone, not to fight against me.

"There are two options. You either fight or vacate the title."

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