Eddie Hearn expects to meet Dana White in Los Angeles next week to discuss his involvement in Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua. Before agreeing to a role, Hearn wants to know what Joshua and Matchroom would receive in return.
That question gives the proposed meeting a purpose beyond settling their public argument. Hearn is leaving room for an agreement while using his claimed contractual veto to negotiate terms.
“What’s in it for Anthony? What’s in it for us?” Hearn said during his post-fight media session in Birmingham. “And once we establish that, we can make a decision. … They cannot be involved in the fight unless myself and Anthony allow them to be.”
Asked whether White would attend the Los Angeles meeting, Hearn said he was “supposed to be.” The meeting remains proposed rather than confirmed.
Hearn says Turki Alalshikh and Netflix want White involved. If his account of the contract is accurate, that gives Matchroom something to bargain with. Their preference for White doesn’t automatically supply a reason for Joshua’s side to accept him. Hearn could seek financial terms, promotional support or another concession, although he hasn’t disclosed any demands. His willingness to meet allows him to hear a proposal while keeping pressure on White to explain what he contributes.
The television production dispute adds another complication. Hearn claimed Sela had told him in writing that White’s statement about handling production was untrue. He maintained that the contract prohibits that involvement, although the relevant terms weren’t presented during the interview.
An appearance at a press conference and responsibility for producing the broadcast would involve different responsibilities. Any agreement would need to establish the scope of White’s role. Hearn also recognizes the promotional value of their rivalry. He acknowledged that the dispute has helped the buildup and said he wants to question White directly if they share a press conference stage.
That gives both sides a reason to find an arrangement. White could gain a visible role in the event, while their exchanges could attract further attention. Hearn’s position is that Joshua and Matchroom should receive a benefit for allowing it. The Los Angeles meeting could establish whether White’s side has an offer he considers worthwhile.
