Anthony Joshua will square off against mandatory challenger Oleksandr Usyk following the collapse of his clash with Tyson Fury.
Joshua was set to face his fellow Brit in Saudi Arabai in August but an arbitration hearing ordered Fury to face Deontay Wilder for a third time.
The 31-year-old was given 48 hours until Friday to sort the fight but, such was never done as Joshua must now face Usyk.
The two heavyweights now have until May 31 to agree a deal before looking at the financial aspect of the clash.
Eddie Hearn had requested an extension until May 24 to ‘show cause’ notice in order to ‘discuss the subject matter and other related affairs’ with Joshua, but Usyk’s team objected.
Usyk defeated Derek Chisora by unanimous decision in October and has remained undefeated in all of his 18 fights.
Reacting to the announcement, Usyk’s promoter Alexander Krassyuk previously told Sky Sports: “According to my knowledge, AJ is ready to take the challenge…”It may happen anywhere including Wembley, but yet no serious venue commitments have been made.”
