By Chris LaBate

Super middleweight contender Lucian Bute (30-0, 24KOs) is likely going to fight on April 14th in Montreal, with or without Nottingham's Carl Froch. The promoters for both boxers are very close to a deal, but information has surfaced that Showtime is reportedly not interested in the fight because the network, who has Bute under contract, wants to see him fight an American opponent in his next outing.

But, other sources are stating that a Bute-Froch deal can still come together despite the recent reports.

According to Bute's trainer, Stephan Larouche, Bute is ready for any boxer in April but obviously he has a preference for Froch. Bute has already begun training for his next fight.

"Froch would give us a very interesting fight, it would be a big seller. But Lucian will fight against anyone, it is left in the hands of [InterBox President] Jean Bedard and our focus is on training," Larouche told Canadian TV channel Reseau Info Sports.