Sports247 has learned a fight between Anthony Joshua and Michael Hunter is expected to be confirmed early next week for June 1.
On the back of Jarrell Miller recording the worst case of drug test failures on record, Joshua was left with no choice but to find an alternative.
Very quickly, former cruiserweight world title challenger Michael Hunter become the favored replacement.
WBN released a shortlist just hours after Miller’s failed test. Hunter was the top name on the pile.
It’s understood talks progressed swiftly this week and will be concluded with relative ease for Hunter to take Miller’s spot.
Hunter was due to fight on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk on May 25. Usyk is the only man to defeat Hunter. The Ukrainian has also been mentioned as a future opponent for Joshua.
At this stage, it was far too early for Usyk to be considered. Unlike Usyk, Hunter has acclimatized to 200 pounds plus.
The 30 year-old has three impressive wins at heavyweight. Hunter is in good shape despite being a massive underdog against Joshua.
