How does Anthony Joshua v Tyson Fury get made?
Published:
It could be the biggest British fight ever
All roads lead to an all-British heavyweight super-fight between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. At least, at some point in the future.
But there may be some crossroads to navigate before that, as boxing’s ever-increasing web of intrigue takes hold.
The two fighters held press conferences last Friday at different venues in London, with both having plenty to say.
Fury was there to announce his comeback fight under new promoter Frank Warren. While Joshua fielded questions on a potential clash with American star, Deontay Wilder.
But of course, never far from the agenda was when would Joshua and Fury eventually get it on in the squared circle.
The Coral News Team takes a look at how this fight gets made…
What does AJ have to do?
It’s looking increasingly likely that a match-up with fellow heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder won’t happen any time soon.
Both parties have been blamed for the hold-up but, either way, it seems like Joshua may have to consider other options.
By holding three straps, the Briton has a number of mandatory challengers. The WBA have ordered AJ to defend his title against Russia’s Alexander Povetkin. However, another American Jarrell Miller is also on the agenda.
The unbeaten Brooklyn native is someone who could come into contention for a summer bout. Joshua confirmed as much himself backstage when he was asked who he’d most likely be fighting.
But, in essence, AJ ideally must simply keep on doing his thing and win each fight that comes his way.
What does Fury have to do?
This is the big question – or, more pertinently, questions. Having failed to fight since 2015 for a number of controversial reasons, Fury has a lot of catching up to do.
First of all, he must get himself back to fighting fitness. By all accounts, he’s in reasonable shape and a lot healthier than 18 months ago.
The former heavyweight champion has still to find an opponent for his June comeback in Manchester. But Warren won’t be short of suitors to face the Gypsy King.
Expect a fairly straightforward tune-up fight, followed by one or possibly even two more bouts before he’s ready to face Joshua.
He’ll need to make sure each fight before any prospective bout with AJ goes according to plan. He’ll also need to steer clear of any other controversies that could put the contest in doubt.
And that’s easier said than done when it comes to the Manchester traveller.
But if both parties can tick each box step-by-step, Britain could see one of the all-time great match-ups. The polished, pulverising Joshua versus the awkward-yet-skilful Fury.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
