In the world of British boxing, two titans stand at the forefront: Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. With Fury currently reigning as the WBC champion and Joshua on his way back to the top after being a former unified heavyweight champion, the question on everyone's mind is, could a showdown between these two champions actually occur?
Both Fury and Joshua have significant fights lined up in the near future. On March 8, Joshua is set to face Francis Ngannou, a former UFC champion who gave Fury a challenging bout last year. Then, on May 18, Fury will meet Oleksandr Usyk, the WBO, WBA, and IBF heavyweight titlist, in their rescheduled undisputed championship fight.
If both British heavyweights emerge victorious in their respective contests, the natural question arises: could they finally step into the ring against each other in 2024? Anthony Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, is a proponent of making this fight happen. He believes that with the right timing, late summer or early autumn, and careful consideration of contracts, the much-anticipated clash between Fury and Joshua can become a reality.
While Fury has previously stated his intention to have two fights with Usyk, he has also expressed his openness to fighting Joshua down the line. However, Frank Warren, the co-promoter of Fury, points out that there are contractual commitments that must be fulfilled before such a fight can take place.
Nonetheless, Warren believes that the landscape of heavyweight boxing will continue to evolve. He notes that other heavyweight contenders will also be vying for mandatory positions or competing for vacant titles. The current era of boxing is experiencing a renaissance, with big cards and fights taking place that were previously unthinkable due to financial constraints. As Warren explains, the heavyweight division has never been as lively as it is today.
For Anthony Joshua to have another shot at a world championship, certain developments may have to occur this year. Hearn acknowledges that a lot needs to happen, including victories for both Joshua and Fury in their upcoming bouts. He reflects on the unpredictable nature of boxing, citing the example of almost finalizing a fight between Joshua and Deontay Wilder, only for Joseph Parker to derail those plans by defeating Wilder. Anything can happen in this sport.
Facing Ngannou will be no easy task for Joshua, as the mixed martial artist has previously dropped Fury in their encounter. Hearn acknowledges the danger in underestimating Ngannou and emphasizes the importance of discipline and brutality in Joshua's performance on March 8.
Nonetheless, Hearn is confident in Joshua's capabilities, especially considering his tremendous form in his previous fight against Otto Wallin. The promoter recounts a powerful training session where Joshua's punches resonated like cannon fire. This newfound confidence, sharpness, and power make Hearn believe that Joshua is on his way to greatness.
Recognizing Fury as the current number one heavyweight, Hearn acknowledges that a dominant win against Ngannou would strengthen Joshua's case for a shot at Fury. He envisions a dramatic showdown between the two British champions, a fight that would define the generation and solidify the legacy of the victor.
In conclusion, the possibility of a Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua fight is a tantalizing prospect in British boxing. While various factors, including contractual obligations and upcoming fights, must align, Eddie Hearn remains hopeful that this long-awaited clash will materialize. Only time will tell if Fury and Joshua can navigate their respective challenges and create a blockbuster event that would captivate the world of boxing.
