President of the Matchroom sports group of companies, Barry Hearn has predicted that the long-awaited heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury could take place at the end of next year.

Negotiations over a fight broke down in October, with Fury instead defending his WBC title against Derek Chisora a fortnight ago.

The 34-year-old had previously said it would be a "travesty" if he did not share a ring with Joshua before they hang up their gloves.

A unification bout against Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the IBF, IBO, WBO and WBA belts after back-to-back victories over Joshua, is next on the agenda for Fury, but Hearn believes a blockbuster fight with Joshua could follow.

The head of Matchroom told Sky Sports News: "Anthony is in the States at the moment trying out some new trainers and getting his head right. He wants to be active in 2023.

"I think Dillian [Whyte] is on the list. There are a few other names - Deontay Wilder might be there, Otto Wallin. It's his call.

"He is at a crossroads in his career. He can't afford another loss.

"We're going to see a very interesting 2023 across the whole heavyweight division. Joe Joyce is up there, 'The Juggernaut' is a handful. Daniel Dubois is coming back.