Tony Bellew’s promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed a three-man shortlist for his next opponent. However, the Matchroom promoter also admitted there is a chance the former WBC World cruiserweight champion may decide to call time on his lustrous career.
The 35 year-old, achieved a lifelong dream by impressively capturing his World title at Goodison Park against Llunga Makabu back in May 2016. The Bomber only made one defence of his cruiserweight title before moving up to heavyweight to tackle British rival and former two-weight World champion David Haye.
After overcoming his bitter rival on two separate occasions and proving the doubters wrong, Bellew has yet to give any indication on a potential time frame for his return to the ring, however he has been linked with a host of big names.
Hearn: Bellew may retire
Speaking on Sky Sports ‘Toe 2 Toe’ podcast, Bellew’s promoter Eddie Hearn was asked about his future plans for The Bomber.
“Possible retirement. Possible retirement.” said Hearn.
“I think there’s three fights. Tyson Fury, which isn’t coming anytime soon. Andre Ward, and the other one who wants it, is Adonis Stevenson up at cruiserweight.”
“They’re the three options for him.” he finished.
What is next for Bellew
The Evertonian has enjoyed a successful career in recent years and is one of the most impressive hot streaks in British boxing, winning his previous ten fights and has been on an unbeaten run since November 2013.
On that night, Bellew was stopped in six rounds by Canadian power-puncher Adonis Stevenson in a bout for Stevenson’s WBC World light heavyweight crown. However, since then he has pushed on for great things and achieving the unexpected many may say.
According to Hearn, the loss to Stevenson is one that Bellew is keen to avenge and feels will persuade him to get back into the ring.
“He likes the idea of the Stevenson fight because he wants to do a job on him (in a rematch) and get the return win. I think at cruiserweight he’s the favourite.”
Furthermore, Hearn explains his reasons for potential bouts with former ‘pound-for-pound’ star Andre Ward, as well as a massive heavyweight showdown with Tyson Fury, a bout that has been called for by both men over the last few months on social media.
“The Ward fight I love for him because I think Tony’s size can make for the definite, not mismatch of skill, but Ward is a genius. And the Fury fight I love because I think Tony can win that fight.”
Fight fans what are your thoughts? Let us know in the comment section below.
