Josh Warrington (30-0) vs Shakur Stevenson (13-0) and Anthony Yarde (18-1) vs Maxim Vlasov (45-3) are both ‘close’ to happening next, Frank Warren has told talkSPORT.com.
The promoter confirmed plans for two of the biggest names in his stable, both of whom are planning big returns in 2020.
IBF featherweight champion Warrington had two important fights in a breakthrough 2018 as he defeated Lee Selby to claim the title and then defended against Carl Frampton.
However, 2019 proved less fruitful with two further defenses against Kid Galahad and Sofiane Takoucht. Now though, he could finally be set to secure the unification bout he desires against WBO champion Shakur Stevenson.
When asked about Warrington vs Stevenson, Warren told talkSPORT.com: “We’re working on it.
“I spoke with Top Rank [Stevenson’s promoters] again yesterday and we’re close to getting that done I hope. Great unification, it would be at Elland Road and fingers crossed we get that over the line.”
In August, light-heavyweight prospect Yarde leaped up in class to challenge Sergey Kovalev for the WBO world title in Chelyabinsk, Russia. The Brit put in a valiant performance but ultimately lost by eleventh-round knockout.
“He’s coming back after Christmas and he’s looking to get himself into the swing again. He gave a great account of himself last time, it was just experience I think that was his undoing.
“But he’s very confident and he showed that he belongs at that level.”
Source: www.talksport.com
