Gennady Golovkin will be unveiled as the latest big-money signing for DAZN early next week, World Boxing News has learned.
The former middleweight king and three-time WBN Fighter of the Year has been inundated with TV offers since the demise of HBO.
Talks with ESPN and Showtime have been overshadowed by DAZN. Coupled by the desire for a redemption shot at Canelo Alvarez.
Should Canelo overcome Danny Jacobs as expected on May 4th in Las Vegas, Golovkin is lined up to face the Mexican this September.
The pair fought around the same time in both 2017 and 2018. Canelo forced a draw and a victory in two closely-fought contests.
‘GGG’ has since laid down claims to winning the two bouts outright. And now bids to extend the saga by inking on the dotted line with DAZN.
WBN understands the contract will be a minimum of two fights, which could be extended to as much as five or six in the future.
Golovkin will warm-up for the Canelo trilogy fight beforehand, possibly in May or June as the Kazakh puncher aims to eventually regain his belts.
Canelo does have that tough assignment against Jacobs. Should he prevail, the Mexican superstar will bring the WBC, IBF, Ring Magazine and controversial WBA strap with him.
LAS VEGAS
A venue for Canelo v Golovkin III is expected to be a huge bone of contention, though. It’s thought Golovkin will push for the fight to be moved outside of Las Vegas.
This means Canelo will not be able to follow through with his usual fight on Mexican Independence weekend in Nevada.
New York, Los Angeles or Texas are alternative considerations. But there’s even rumors a European football stadium complete with a roof might be an outside option for the fall.
Whatever happens, Golovkin signing with DAZN is a clear indication of a third fight. If it takes place at the 160 or 168 limits is another talking point.
The confirmation of Golovkin’s debut under DAZN will give a clearer picture of whether a move up in weight is on the cards.
Recently becoming a three-division ruler, Canelo holds titles at middle and super-middle. In contrast, Golovkin has fought at 160 his entire career.
Despite already being assured of future Hall of Fame status, the general consensus is Golovkin needs to win a belt north of the middleweight limit to enhance his legacy.
Phil Jay is Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay
