World Boxing News has learned DAZN have put a massive $50m deal on the table for Deontay Wilder in a two-fight offering.
Talks between both parties were set for this week, with DAZN hell-bent on securing the services of the WBC heavyweight champion.
The end-game will be a huge undisputed unification with Anthony Joshua over two fights in 2020.
On the back of Eddie Hearn confirming DAZN will act as middle men in a huge top division collision, WBN now understands Wilder is wanted this year for two bouts initially.
Wilder will effectively receive $25m per fight, and on the condition ‘The Bronze Bomber’ wins both outings, will then be pitched in with Joshua next year.
A further improved contract is to be fully discussed separately regarding the Joshua double.
DAZN want to avoid a delay in getting Wilder on the books. This is in order to assure fans the biggest battle in world boxing will eventually happen.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Tuesday evening, Hearn explained his role will be minimal. He and Wilder’s co-manager Shelly Finkel just don’t see eye-to-eye.
“There’s an opportunity for someone to be if you like, a mediator to try and get it done,” said Hearn.
“Clearly the relationship between Team Wilder and Team Joshua isn’t the best. I think this is a route that is going to be very beneficial to making that undisputed fight.
“I think any input from me would be a negative one. In terms of trying to move things forward because of the relationship. So I’ll leave it in the hands of the broadcasters (DAZN) to try and effectively be a mediator.
CLOSER
“It’s not just about doing a deal with Wilder, it’s about doing a deal with Joshua, for the fight.
“They’ve got their work cut out. But the pieces are coming together. There’s a long way to go, a long way to go.
“We’ll see where it goes. But there is now a strategy in place and a route in place that could lead us to an undisputed fight,” he added.
Opponents for Wilder’s two-fight agreement will include Dominic Breazeale (dependent on an agreement with Al Haymon), Dillian Whyte, Wladimir Klitschko and Oleksandr Usyk.
