By Osman Rodriguez
According to Canadian network RDS, a deal is very close to being finalized for Lucian Bute to defend his IBF super middleweight against Carl Froch in Nottingham, England on May 12. No agreement has been formally signed, but the network reports that InterBox, who promote Bute, could announce the fight as early as Friday.
InterBox President Jean Bedard hinted at a deal on Twitter by saying - "[Lucian Bute] start preparing your bags ...Get your luggage ready..."
Bute (30-0, 24 KOs) will be making the tenth defense of his title against Froch (28-2, 20 KOs) - and it won't take place on Showtime or HBO. Showtime, who have Bute under contract - rejected the fight - and sources are indicating that EPIX is the likely outlet to televise the showdown in the United States.