Froch vs Stevenson negotiations likely will head to purse bid, both sides want home advantage

At a press conference today, promoter Yvon Michel said that his fighter Adonis Stevenson will get his mandatory shot at the IBF super middleweight title held by Carl Froch, and that the two sides are negotiating presently, with both camps wanting home field for the bout.

Froch's team, of course, want the fight in Nottingham, or at least in the United Kingdom, while Michel would love to bring the fight to Montreal. The good news is that it would sell at either location, because Montreal boxing fans are among the best in the world, and Froch has become a draw at home.

In a press release, Stevenson (19-1, 16 KO) expressed his joy at landing the title shot he earned with a win over Don George in October.

"I'm finally realizing my goal of a world championship fight, facing a great champion like Carl Froch," Stevenson said. "I know he's had great victories during his career, particularly against two other Quebec fighters, Jean Pascal and Lucian Bute, but I have all of the tools needed to emerge victorious in a great fight. I would obviously like the fight to take place here in Quebec, but I have no problem winning the title in England, if necessary. "

If the fight goes to purse bid, which it seems it will, that will take place on January 15, with the fight then to be scheduled between February 13 and April 15.

Michel says that he thinks Froch should come to Quebec after winning at home against Pascal and Lucian Bute.

"Carl Froch not only has the obligation to fight Adonis Stevenson, but the 'Superman' fight is certainly the most profitable, as well as the best alternative for the champion and his only way to keep his IBF title belt," the promoter stated.

"I know Froch's promoter, Eddie Hearn, wants this fight to take place in England, and he has also sent an interesting offer for a date in May. From our side, we will rally all of Quebec Nation to get behind us and try to convince the Super Six finalist to come here to defend his crown in March or April. We have also sent a very generous offer for this purpose. He had the opportunity to beat Pascal and Bute at his home in Nottingham. Isn't it his turn to visit us in Quebec?"