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.’’