Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook will defend his title against mandatory challenger Errol Spence Jr in May.

The two stars of the division will meet in the UK, with a venue and exact date to be confirmed.

After fighting middleweight king Gennady Golovkin in September 2016, Brook had been hoping to take on British rival Amir Khan, but talks once again collapsed.

Brook’s camp had been hoping he would step up a weight division, but the Sheffield fighter insists he will not vacate his title.

He will now come up against Spence Jr, who is yet to lose so far in his professional career. The American has won 21 fights to date, with 18 coming inside the distance.

Spence Jr competed at the London 2012 Olympics – although he failed to win a medal – and is now widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the welterweight division.

Reports suggest the bout will take place in Sheffield on either May 20 or 27, with Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane ground a possible venue.

Hearn tweeted: “Terms agreed for @SpecialKBrook vs @ErrolSpenceJr – full announcement coming soon – fight will take place in the UK.

Best fight in the division.” Brook’s fight with Spence Jr adds more excitement to the British boxing scene and will take place just weeks after Anthony Joshua does battle with Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley.

The Londoner is 1.44 favourite to win, with the draw 26.00. The Ukrainian is available at odds of 2.80.