It was announced earlier today that Dillian Whyte could fight Tyson Fury in an all-British heavyweight clash for the chance to become Deontay Wilder’s mandatory challenger.

The heavyweight division is without doubt going through a purple patch of great fighters, but as boxing supporters, we have been deprived the privilege of watching these greats step into the ring with each other.

Since the Fury vs Wilder fight, fans have longed for another like it.

Now, it would seem, supporters may finally get what they have been longing for.

Whyte has been underestimated his whole career and probably deserves a shot at either belt holder as it is, but it looks as though he will have to go through the Gypsy King first to earn his chance in the ring with the Bronze Bomber.

However, this has outraged Whyte and the rest of his team, who believe they should already be the number one challenger and next opponent for Wilder after his WBC final eliminator bout with Dominic Breazeale was pulled - remembering, of course, that Breazeale has gone on to be Wilder’s next opponent.

Likewise, Fury too qualifies for another shot at Wilder after his first bout with the American ended in such controversial circumstances. The fight, after 12 rounds, was ruled as a draw.

Despite being knocked down twice, many believed Fury won the fight and was robbed in front of Wilder’s home crowd.

Needless to say, the fight would be incredible. Both men believe that they deserve to be Wilder’s number one challenger and for good reason. Equally, both men are respected as being amongst the top heavyweights in the division.

Now, Ricky Hatton has had his say on the fight and what an occasion it would be - adding that Whyte deserves this opportunity more than anybody.

He said in an interview with iFL TV: “I think Tyson Fury vs Dillian Whyte would be a good fight. I think Dillian has paid his dues and he’s moved on from the [Anthony] Joshua fight and that performance gave him the confidence to move on. He deserves the eliminator shot.”

Then, the top ranked British light-welterweight of all time had his say on the outcome of the fight and was pretty sure of who he believed would come out victorious.

“It’s hard for me to go against Tyson,” stated Hatton. “Not because he’s a Mancunian and he’s my mate, but I see him day in day out in the gym and he’s something else.

“He did well enough with Wilder after two little comeback fights and he’s slipped a gear since then as well.

“I can’t pick anyone over Tyson.”

Perhaps he and others will have a better idea come August after both halves have fought in their respective matches.

First, Fury goes toe-to-toe with Tom Schwarz on June 15. Then, Whyte will fight Oscar Rivas on July 20.