Speaking to WBN, Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn appeared to position himself ready for negotiations with Deontay Wilder ahead of a potential bout with unified heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua.

Acknowledging issues with his relationship with Wilder's handler Shelly Finkel, Hearn suggested the American would have to bend in negotiations more than he would like to in order to secure the fight. 

This comes as a result of Wilder's small pool of potential big fight opponents.

With Finkel yet to provide a big pay-day or profile for Wilder, Hearn is aware of the pressure on him to deliver the fight.

"Deontay is probably ringing him up everyday asking what's next for me? If it's not Joshua, then who is it and how much are you going to pay me?" said Hearn.

"If it's not Joshua they're bang in trouble and the future doesn't look great for Deontay Wilder," Hearn concluded.

With prospects of a big money fights outside of Joshua bare, the American will look to secure a bout with the man who has been able to draw huge UK crowds.

With Joshua slated to fight Alexander Povetkin should the meeting with Wilder not materialise, Wilder's options are truly limited. 

Having already beaten Luis Ortiz, a rematch wouldn't be considered blockbuster, and a potential fight with Tyson Fury is some time away with the Gypsy King set to have another tune-up or two before stepping in the ring with tougher competition.

Another possibility could be Dillian Whyte or Joseph Parker somewhere down the line after they fight in July, but that's not really what Wilder wants.

Other options include Dominic Breazeale and Jarrell Miller, both of which would be met with little fanfare and provide little commercial opportunities for Wilder.

Wilder and his team will therefore be doing all they can to advance talks with Hearn and set up the much anticipated contest with Anthony Joshua.

All eyes will remain on the negotiations.