A complicated situation just got even more frustrating as reports swirl that Deontay Wilder will reject a $100m plus offer from DAZN.
As WBN revealed earlier, Wilder was offered a deal worth a huge amount to fight on the streaming service in 2019.
If victorious in his next fight, Anthony Joshua would be on the menu. Guaranteeing another $50m and $50m more dependent on a rematch.
The deal, whichever way you look at it is eye-popping money to turn away from.
But WBN understands was in line to fight Joshua on DAZN after completing his mandatory fight with Dominic Breazeale elsewhere.
Also, DAZN hoped to snag Wilder’s spring outing opposite Breazeale to be televised on their platform. This move is just not possible at the moment.
Finally, a September fight against another DAZN foe (likely Dillian Whyte) was put on the table before Joshua. Also, not in Wilder’s interest.
Wilder is set to take care of business with his American rival on May 18. A fight which has long been planned for Showtime after Tyson Fury walked away.
Without an agreement, a deal could fall flat. Although Wilder moving over to DAZN briefly by 2020 remains possible.
Promoter Eddie Hearn, who looks after Joshua, stated the only way an undisputed unification happens is if Wilder signs with DAZN.
It’s remain highly probable Wilder would be willing to pen a two-fight contract for Joshua in the future on the right terms.
HAYMON
Wilder is tied in with Al Haymon’s Premier Boxing Champions for the long haul. WBN believes ‘The Bronze Bomber’ will only fight Joshua briefly on DAZN before moving back to Showtime.
Haymon having no say in Wilder’s future seems an impossibility. Effectively leaving DAZN with few alternatives on a long-term deal.
Ideally, Joshua v Wilder can happen should both sides makes adjustments from their current roadblock position.
As things stand, Wilder is due to announce the Breazeale fight on Tuesday. So unless there’s movement beforehand, DAZN will not be confirming a deal with the WBC Champion just yet.
A reverse of the situation is certainly salvageable. But WBN is convinced any DAZN contract would need to involve Joshua without any other fighters or dates thrown into the mix.
