Promoter Hearn denied that Joshua’s decision will be financially motivated, but argued there was a logic in him taking a backseat after recently trialling a number of new coaches as he seeks to replace long-time mentor Rob McCracken.

“There definitely no deal done,” Hearn said on the DAZN Boxing Show. “Long way to go in terms of detail.

“There is a smart play here somewhere, but AJ’s not about the money.

“If the plan makes sense – work with a new trainer, maybe have a fight first, go into a much bigger fight – yeah, I can see the sense in it.