Anthony Joshua faced backlash from fans as he declined to commit to a showdown with Tyson Fury. Fury dominated his recent match against Arslanbek Makhmudov, but Joshua, who was present at the event, opted not to enter the ring with Fury. Despite Fury’s public challenge for a “Battle of Britain,” Joshua decided against an immediate agreement and may pursue another fight before potentially meeting Fury later in the year.
In response, Joshua dismissed Fury’s taunts, calling him a “clout chaser” and asserting his authority in the potential match-up. He emphasized that negotiations were ongoing and expressed willingness to fight Fury soon. Joshua highlighted the need for formal contract discussions and indicated a likelihood of facing Fury in the near future without resorting to sensational confrontations.
When asked about the possibility of a warm-up fight beforehand, Joshua acknowledged the options available, citing a recent personal incident that necessitated careful consideration before returning to the ring. He emphasized the current priorities in his life that require attention before committing to his next boxing challenge.
The long-awaited clash between the two British boxers has faced numerous obstacles over the years. Despite a previously arranged deal in 2021, Fury was redirected to face Deontay Wilder, and Joshua suffered a defeat to Oleksandr Usyk. Recent events, including Joshua’s unexpected setback due to a car accident, have further complicated the timeline for a potential match between the two heavyweight stars.