Negotiations underway for Murat Gassiev vs Jarrell Miller

Negotiations are currently in progress for a heavyweight title fight between WBA champion Murat Gassiev and Jarrell Miller. Eddie Hearn confirmed that talks are active as part of discussions regarding opportunities within the heavyweight division.

Miller, who is 38 years old, recently signed with Matchroom. This potential bout provides a direct path back to world title contention for the American heavyweight. A fight against the WBA champion would allow Miller to move toward the top of the division without participating in a series of elimination matches.

This opportunity follows a period of difficulty for Miller. A scheduled 2019 title fight against Anthony Joshua was canceled after Miller failed several drug tests prior to the event. Since then, he has worked to rebuild his career, maintaining a reputation as a difficult opponent through his size, high work rate, and constant pressure.

Gassiev is the current WBA heavyweight champion. His transition from the cruiserweight division to the heavyweight division has been slow. While the former unified cruiserweight champion has significant punching power, his progress at heavyweight has been hindered by long layoffs and health issues.

Hearn noted that there has been some confusion regarding the WBA, but emphasized that the champion must fight Miller. If Miller is successful in the championship bout, Hearn is already looking toward future matchups, including a potential fight against Kabayel.

For now, the priority remains finalizing the terms for the Gassiev and Miller contest. For Miller, the match represents a chance to capture a world title late in his professional career.