Eddie Hearn says that ANTHONY JOSHUA'S rematch against Oleksandr Uzyk will still go ahead despite Russia's invasion in Ukraine.
They will be going toe to toe again this year, with April being the most likely date.
Eddie Hearn believes Joshua will rematch Usyk despite Russia's invasion
After Russia invaded Ukraine last week, Usyk was seen clutching a machinegun in Ukraine.
AJ's promoter is still unsure if the fight can go ahead.
Hearn doesn't seem to be concerned about this, suggesting that the fight WILL proceed as planned, as Usyk seeks to defend his WBA and IBF heavyweight belts.
Hearn said to iFL TV, "People keep saying this will affect Oleksandr Uzyk (against Joshua )...).
"I cannot tell you what Oleksandr Uzyk is thinking in his head.
"The answer to my question is no. I think Usyk will begin camp in four weeks.
"(Russian-based) Dmitry Bivol will begin camp (for Canelo alvarez fight) in Los Angeles this Saturday or Monday...
"If Usyk is required to do so, he will comply.
"It's very sensitive and I cannot tell you what certain people do when their country goes to war."
"But it doesn't have any bearing on Anthony Joshua against Oleksandr Usyk."
Hearn answered the question again, "I don't think so."
"But it's still a sensitive topic. Your country is at war.
"You've heard Vitali Klitschko, Wladmir Klitschko talk about fighting in the army. Wow."
The weekend was a busy one for Usyk, a father-of-three who pleaded with Russia for an end to the war.
In an Instagram video, the Orthodox Christian devout said: "Good Morning to everyone. My name is Oleksandr Usyk. I would like to meet the Russian people.
"If we are brothers, Orthodox ones," don't send your children to the country.
"Also, I'm addressing it to the President Vladimir Putin. This war can be stopped.
"Please sit down and let us negotiate it without any claims.
"Our children, wives, and grannies are hiding under the floors. We are here in our country and we can't do it any other.
"We are defending. Stop this war. There is no war.
Joshua is now supporting Usyk and has left behind his rivalry.
AJ stated: "I have learned that politics and sports go hand in hand.
"They are powerful voices, and it is good that they are speaking up.
They aren't pushing for war; they are saying, "Let's find peace."
