Higgins, in his capacity as Duco boss, released a video of Joshua ‘being dropped’ in a press conference this week, which was subsequently panned by Hearn hours later.
The aim was to show Parker’s ‘true value’ as the WBO ruler has never been hurt in a contest like Joshua, although Hearn is worried the shenanigans may have the opposite effect.
You’ve got to love this David Higgins – he is absolutely off his swede,” Hearn exclusively told Sky Sports.
“We are getting closer on a deal, but holding a press conference in a broom cupboard with a promotional video that looks like it’s been done by my eight-year-old daughter is not the one, in terms of justifying your commercial value.
“Negotiations are ongoing and we are hoping a deal can be reached,” he added.
Parker and Higgins want a straight 35% split of all proceedings for the clash and have Australian puncher Lucas Browne and others on standby as replacements for a spring return.
The undefeated champion recently out-pointed Hughie Fury on UK soil in a controversial decision and would be forced to make another trip to British shores in order to seal the Joshua deal.
‘AJ’ has been enjoying a holiday in Dubai after his punishing, yet less satisfying win over Carlos Takam and is hopeful of meeting Parker before then further unifying with Deontay Wilder in the summer.
