Rival camps agree: We need to talk

Rival boxing promoters Eddie Hearn and David Higgins have finally opened up communication lines, setting up the possibility of a world heavyweight title unification fight between Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker.

Unification is the word on everyone’s lips now that respective champions Joshua ( WBA and IBF), Parker (WBO) and Deontay Wilder (WBC) have all completed their mandatory defences.

Higgins, Parker and trainer Kevin Barry will outline their hopes for 2018 at a media conference in Auckland today, but adjustments might need to be made if talks with Hearn ramp up.

They have a viable alternative in what would be a hugely lucrative trans-Tasman challenge from rugged Australian Lucas Browne, a fight that could be fought across the ditch early next year.

But Higgins, the Duco Events boss, has also been trying to ‘‘flush out’’ Hearn for some time now, saying a Joshua-Parker fight in March can be a reality if the Kiwi’s share of the massive purse is ‘‘respectful’’.

Hearn finally engaged Higgins on Monday night and the signs are positive.

‘‘Joshua discussions remain alive for a fight in March next year,’’ Higgins said of his initial contact with Hearn over a unification fight.

‘‘There is a lot of detail to work out but yes, it remains a possibility.’’

The sticking pointy will primarily be money and Hearn in an interview with American specialist site Thaboxingvoice outlined the position of strength he operates from as calls increase for a clash between Joshua and Wilder.

‘‘Deontay Wilder is a champion but you can’t compare him with Anthony Joshua financially,’’ Hearn said.

‘‘Anthony Joshua is a superstar.

‘‘He generates the money Deontay Wilder doesn’t.’’ ...