On Wednesday, a report surfaced in the The Telegraph that the UFC’s fledgling venture into the Sweet Science, Zuffa Boxing, was going to make a serious effort to sign heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.
According to the report, the UFC’s boxing promotion could potentially offer Joshua a “promotional multi-fight deal” worth $500 million. Additionally, UFC President Dana White will reportedly attend Joshua’s upcoming fight against Joseph Parker in Cardiff, Wales, on Saturday.
At the moment, Joshua is under contract with Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn. Speaking to ESPN.com on a conference call, Joshua said he doesn’t plan on parting ways with Hearn but that his team would work with Zuffa and White if the offer “makes sense.”
“Listen, I’m riding with Eddie. I’ve been riding with Eddie. He got me from the get go,” Joshua said. “I’m not into the UFC so I don’t know what their plans are. … I’m interested because we can all work together. Remember, mine and Eddie’s relationship is a really good working relationship. And I’m sure Eddie has an interest in working with Dana White. If it’s good business it makes sense.
“We’ll listen and 100 percent, if it makes sense we’re all ears, man. I’m happy that Dana is coming into the game. Hopefully, he can add some excitement and we can progress forward and make some good money and make some good fights.”
Joshua, 28, was a gold medalist at the 2012 Olympic Games and owns a 20-0 professional boxing record. All 20 of his victories have come via knockout.