Leading UK promoter Eddie Hearn gave
interview for the YouTube channel of the streaming company DAZN, with which he entered into a long-term agreement in the amount of about $ 1 billion.
In a conversation, the functionary answered questions regarding the rematch scheduled for August 20 in Saudi Arabia between the unified heavyweight champion (over 90.7 kg) from Ukraine Oleksandr Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) and ex-champion from Britain Anthony Joshua (24 -2, 22 KOs).
– It took a lot of time to organize a revenge. Dates changed, a lot of things happened on the sidelines. Is there any chance that this fight would not have taken place due to what is happening in Ukraine?
– Not. It was a huge deal. It was not easy to bring everything to a common denominator. There were many issues that had to be overcome – with the war in Ukraine, small nuances and the like. And also there was a return of covid. But we used the time and completed the deal. We are happy with the contract and where we are. We are looking forward to the next event.
– Oleksandr Usyk looks bigger. I think he looks wider and I guess he’s a full-fledged heavyweight now, right? This fighter has been in the heavyweight division for 4 years now. Don’t you think so?
“I know he’s a lot smaller than Joshua. This is the main thing I see. But I don’t really look at Usyk’s size. I look for quality. An excellent fighter from the pound-for-pound list. You have to do something special to beat him. And Joshua will put it all together and beat him.
Hearn reveals why Joshua will stop Usyk in rematch
“I was in Saudi Arabia for Joshua’s rematch with Ruiz. It was fantastic. The hosts put on a spectacular show, specially built the arena. What can we expect this time?
“Something even more spectacular. We’re talking Manila Thriller, Jungle Thunder, this fight is on a similar scale. This will be an epic event. We are expecting a massive event on August 20th.
Robert Garcia has been added to the team. No more Rob McCracken. Everyone was waiting to see who it would be.
“He’s a great coach. AJ waited as he usually does. He did everything right. He found someone he believes in, and that energy could be seen in the camp. Robert is back after a great win with Rodriguez. Great positive, great energy, great series. And everyone is happy. They are ready to work. Great camp, great psychology – just go there and go through the camp.
Joshua has a fantastic deal with DAZN. Tell me about this deal. He has been with Sky for a very long time. There were great fights, memorable nights. DAZN is now…
Yes, things are changing. We made this transition from Sky to DAZN. Joshua followed us. He considered all the options at various levels and felt that this was the best TV platform for him. He understands DAZN’s global vision. He understands the future of streaming and the work they are doing. And here’s who he supported. He is a smart person. I believe he saddled the right steed. Time will tell. We look forward to a very long collaboration between DAZN and Anthony Joshua.
Cuban coach told how to beat Usyk, compared the strength of Joyce and Haye
“Someone at home said he was done. He’s probably watching all of this on DAZN right now. Will he come back 100% no matter who the winner is or not?
– He can do anything. Everyone has such a right. But he loves to compete. And he also loves banknotes. And Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury isn’t just the biggest fight in boxing. This is the biggest fight in the history of the sport called boxing. So let’s get this job done first, and then we’ll meet Tyson Fury.
Did you see my last tweet: “Chaos in Laos”?
– Do you like this?
— I’m trying to come up with a slogan for this fight.
“Let’s win this fight, and then there will be “Chaos in Laos.”