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Added by Segun Vincent December 11, 2017

World heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker are close to securing a bumper unification fight for Cardiff on 31 March.

Reports say negotiations with managers of both fighters are “going good.”

Parker, a New Zealander, is the WBO heavyweight champion, while Joshua, a Briton, is the WBA and IBF title holder.

The bout is expected to take place at the Principality Stadium in the Welsh capital.

In a chat with ESPN, the 25-year-old Parker said talks had reached an advanced stage.

“I think the Joshua fight can go ahead early next year when both teams are locked in and happy,” he said.

“When we can find a free date, a time in March, then we can definitely make it happen.

“Negotiations are going good. I think we’re close to locking something in. They’re stuck at 30 per cent (of the split), we’re stuck at 35 so it’s just finding the middle ground.

“We’ll take 35 percent which means Joshua will take 65, which is nearly double me, so I think that’s a fair deal because he’s the bigger draw card and he’s has two belts, and I have one.

“I think that’s reasonable and fair.

“I think we’re very close. I’m excited as it’s a chance to showcase my skills in the UK more.”