Hearn says the Taylor v Catterall showdown is “right up there” with the greatest domestic rivalries he has promoted.

Two years on from their controversial first bout, Hearn says it is all on the line for both fighters at the First Direct Arena.

“This is a great moment for British boxing, by far the biggest British fight of the year,” Hearn said.

“In terms of animosity, in terms of narrative, in terms of history, it’s got it all. I think we’ll get a great fight.”

Hearn said their previous fight was “a little bit cagey” but he does not expect a repeat on this occasion.

“No one will want to leave it to the scorecards. I think we’ll get a real fight of it,” he said.

“I don’t want to talk about careers on the line, but the reason I say that is because both guys want to be in the massive fights. Both guys want to be in world championship fights.

“If you lose this fight, you’re going to be a long way away from that. So it’s an absolute must-win for both sides.”