Brook is back in action this coming June before Hearn attempts to secure a world title shot for the Yorkshireman for August or September.
Victory in that said championship bout, in which Brook would have the chance to become a two-weight world title holder, then opens the door for a first defence against Khan.
“There aren’t the big names at 154 pounds, but guess what – there is now,” Hearn told Sky Sports when pointing to Brook.
“Kell Brook is coming for a second world title and I believe he’s going to be a two-weight world champion in 2018.”
Asked about the prospect of fighting Amir Khan next, the Matchroom boss ruled it out, by adding: “Amir Khan v Kell Brook is the fight we’ve wanted for three or four years.
“Khan fights in Liverpool on April 21 and he’s got to come through that. Kell Brook has passed the test, so Amir Khan has got to pass the test on April 21.
“Kell wants to fight in June, that’s when Kell’s next going to be out. Back in the gym on Monday to make up for lost time.
“He’s got to win, and of course later in 2018 my job is to give you Amir Khan v Kell Brook.
“That’s the fight we need to see but let’s see Amir Khan win on April 21st and Kell back in the gym, back grinding at 154,” stated Hearn.
A catchweight clash with Khan looks likely, with the policy of any of the sports’ governing bodies meaning a battle below the super-welterweight limit can still have the belt up for grabs.
This means Khan can ask for a stipulated limit of 150 pounds and remain in with a chance of challenging for Brook’s future world strap.
All Brook has to do in the meantime is secure a shot at Erislandy Lara, Jermell Charlo, Sadam Ali or Jarrett Hurd, win and then agree terms with Khan.
Should Jermell Charlo move up weight before then, it’s highly possible Hearn could put a request in with the WBC for Brook and Khan to contest the vacant green belt.
Brook’s new standing as the WBC Silver champion, coupled with Khan’s good relationship with the World Boxing Council would see the chances elevated considerably.
