Pulev pulled out of the October 28 clash in Cardiff on Monday due to a torn pectoral muscle and Cherchi fighter Carlos Takam was quickly drafted in to save a promotion with over 70,000 tickets sold.
Hearn explained he met with Cherchi to put a deal in place for number three rated Takam to be the reserve for Joshua, in line with the IBF’s mandatory regulations, and things have now worked out in favour of the Cameroonian contender.
“In early September, I met Eddie Hearn. We spoke about this fight and that we would be happy to put Carlos Takam as the reserve for October 28,” Cherchi exclusively told World Boxing News.
“Of course, it was a surprise to hear Kubrat Pulev was injured yesterday and to receive the call from Eddie for the fight, but we were very happy to face Anthony Joshua in Cardiff because Carlos will have a big chance on a very big stage. ”
“Carlos has always been training and is ready for the opportunity.”
Asked his views on Takam’s chances against the undefeated world champion, Cherchi added: “I honestly think Carlos will have his chance to cause an upset against Joshua. Carlos is ranked so high for a reason,” he pointed out.
Takam steps in for the Principality Stadium bout following back-to-back stoppage wins over Ivica Bacurin and Marcin Rekowski in Macau, China and Saint-Vincent in Italy respectively.
Prior to those victories, the 36 year-old lost out to current world title-holder Joseph Parker (pre-WBO strap) on points down under in New Zealand having faded during the mid-rounds despite a valiant effort.
Joshua will begin as a huge favorite to prevail, as always, but Takam has a massive opportunity to make a name for himself and put the first dent in one of the most feared records in all of boxing later this month in Wales.
Phil Jay is Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay
