Update On Matchroom Boxing’s Potential Return To America

Boxing has started its slow transition back to the main stage. Top Rank became the first major entity to put on events in the United States. Others, like Golden Boy, are expected to follow suit. What about Matchroom Boxing, based in the United Kingdom? It appears that Eddie Hearn has a plan to return sooner than we think.

Recently, Hearn discussed the idea of bringing the promotion back to America by August. He was hoping not to rush anything in the wake of the coronavirus. Speaking with ESPN, Hearn appears to have a set plan. Matchroom is targeting August 8, 15, and 22 as the dates for its return. There are reports that Florida will put on Matchroom events, and thanks to the Nevada Athletic Commission, Las Vegas is an option.

As far as which fighters may end up fighting on the cards, Hearn has a few in mind.

“We’ve got a few different fights in the fire, some involve (Regis) Prograis, some involve (Maurice) Hooker — some involve neither,” Hearn stated.

Both Prograis and Hooker were supposed to face one another on April 17 but the bout was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. With Hooker expressing a desire to move up to welterweight, Prograis has been looking for a new opponent. Recent reports have Prograis facing Pablo Cesar Cano at 140 pounds.

Additionally, a WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring Welterweight Title bout between champion Cecilia Braekhus and Jessica McCaskill is expected to co-headline one of those cards. This is according to Hearn. Both were supposed to fight on the Prograis-Hooker card before it was postponed.

Hearn has been working to bring Matchroom back, with plans in motion to resume action in the United Kingdom via the backyard of Matchroom’s United Kingdom office. The 15-acre land in Brentwood, Essex will produce fights featuring several UK athletes.