• Super-middleweight

Froch closing in on Bute showdown

ESPN staff
February 10, 2012
Carl Froch was outclassed by Andre Ward in December © PA Photos
Enlarge

Carl Froch has moved closer to another world title shot after the Nottingham fighter was made the mandatory challenger for Lucian Bute's IBF super-middleweight belt.

Froch lost his WBC crown to the impressive Andre Ward in December's Super Six final, and promoter Eddie Hearn has been busy trawling through the list of prospective opponents for his charge.

Having fought five of his last seven fights away from home, Froch is eager for his next clash to be in England, with a home and away double-header against Bute now set to be agreed.

Hearn has booked the Nottingham Arena on May 5, with Froch likely to head to Canada for the return bout later in the year if Hearn can turn "positive discussions" into a deal.

"It is Carl's dream to have his next fight in the UK and that is something very important to both of us," Hearn said on the Matchroom Boxing website. "I believe we can bring Lucian here in May and we will be happy to give him the rematch in Canada once Carl has taken the IBF title from him."

Froch, meanwhile, took to Twitter to give the fans an update on his next move. He said: "Looks like my next one is gonna be for the IBF world title! Nice one Eddie Hearn. More news to come on date & venue very soon. This one's in the UK! Get yourself over here. If you're allowed."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices