JOSH Can’T ReSIST PUL OF 2020

BOXING

RICH JOneS TOM HOPKInSOn

ANTHONY JOSHUA will fight in 2020 – even if his clash with Kubrat Pulev has to take place behind closed doors.

Eddie Hearn is sure crowds can be back in time to watch Joshua defend his world heavyweight titles on December 5 or 12.

Even if that is not the case, Hearn insists he will not stand in the way of Joshua (left) and his desire to get back in the ring.

“AJ is prepared to fight behind closed doors as he wants to progress his career,” Hearn said.

“He needs to fight. We’re desperate for crowds to return but we will continue to innovate and invest to make sure that our fighters can develop and the sport can continue to grow.”

Meanwhile, Welsh boxer Liam Williams offered to ‘bash’ Felix Cash after the latter told Hearn he needs to kick on. Cash beat Jason Welborn on Friday night to retain his Commonwealth middleweight title.

His win prompted Williams to say on Twitter yesterday: “If Felix Cash wants to get bashed while I wait for my world-title shot I can be available to do so.”