Eddie Hearn told what he expects from Joshua in case of defeat in the fight with Franklin

Promoter Eddie Hearn commented on the upcoming fight between the former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and the American Jermaine Franklin.

"People say it's an easy fight for Joshua, but it's not like that at all. Let's look at the facts. He suffered two defeats against Oleksandr Usyk, who is ranked number one in the weight category. But we saw an emotional side of AJ in his last performance, especially after the fight. On the other hand, Franklin is full of confidence after his fight with Dillian Whyte, and he has also suddenly dropped weight."

"This is an important moment in Joshua's career. People are talking about fights with Deontay Wilder, Whyte, and Fury, but he has to win on April 1st. Franklin is a good fighter who will come well prepared, but AJ has also worked hard in humble circumstances."

"It was just him, Derrick James, and Errol Spence. They put in a lot of hard work. I think it's the hardest camp he's ever had, and I really hope he can give the performance he deserves on April 1st because I believe he's still in his prime," said Hearn.

Scheduled for April 1st, the fight will be held in the O2 Arena ring in London, and it marks Joshua's first bout since his loss to Oleksandr Usyk in their rematch.

After the defeat, Joshua attempted to negotiate a fight with WBC titleholder Tyson Fury, but they failed to come to an agreement. Alternatively, Joshua also explored the possibility of fighting Dillian Whyte.

Franklin's previous match ended in a loss by decision to former WBC interim world heavyweight champion, Whyte.