Eddie Hearn denies deal has been struck for Joshua vs Klitschko

However, Matchroom chief remains in negotiations and is optimistic that an agreement can be reached.

Eddie Hearn has publicly dismissed speculation that an agreement has been reached for Matchroom's Anthony Joshua to take on Wladimir Klitschko in a high-profile world heavyweight title fight. The former long-serving champion was originally due to face Tyson Fury in a delayed rematch on 29 October, only for that bout to be postponed for a second time after his opponent was declared "medically unfit to fight".

Such a withdrawal opened up the possibility for Joshua to face Klitschko, with the IBF title-holder's camp yet to officially confirm the opponent for his second defence that will take place at the Manchester Arena on 26 November. Recent reports had even gone as far as to suggest that it was a done deal, although Hearn insists that negotiations remain ongoing.

"Good morning. I thought I'd do a quick video," he said on Instagram. "I've seen a lot of stuff talking about AJ and Klitschko, saying that it's done. It's definitely not done. We are negotiating, we are in talks with Team Klitschko and Bernd Boente. I'm hopeful that a fight can be made, if everything works out.

"Joseph Parker of course, our mandatory, is boxing this Saturday live on Sky Sports against Alexander Dimitrenko and that's on the Cleverly-Brahmer broadcast... On AJ, we're working hard and we hope to have some news soon. I'll update you when I can."

New Zealander Parker was installed as the number one challenger to Joshua's throne after he outpointed Carlos Takam in a final eliminator earlier this year. The undefeated 24-year-old, who boasts 17 knockouts from 20 professional fights, has beaten compatriot Solomon Haumono since then and will hope to impress further against Germany's Dimitrenko in Auckland.

Any bout between Joshua and Klitschko would be for the IBF belt, although it could also end up as a heavyweight unification fight if Fury ends up being stripped of his belts or being demoted to a champion in recess. Trainer Peter Fury revealed last week that his nephew was seeking help and could make his return to the ring early next year.