Tyson Fury: 'Anthony Joshua hit me so hard I was almost knocked out for a month'
The WWE-style exchange between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua that punctuated the former’s comeback victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov didn’t reveal much about whether the two Britons will ever engage in a professional bout. But it did remind everyone that they've exchanged punches before.
Joshua – when only a 20-year-old up-and-coming amateur – got the better of Fury during a sparring session that took place in 2010. “I beat you up when we were kids,” said Joshua, who refused to succumb to Fury’s goading and accept the offer of a fight.
An audio clip has since emerged from the time of the sparring of a Fury interview, conducted by Steve Bunce, in which Fury, then English heavyweight champion, described getting a “beating” from young Joshua.
“I sparred with the ABA champion [Anthony Joshua]. He’s red hot, him. He’s very good,” the 21-year-old Fury told Bunce in 2010.
“To be honest, I thought to myself I’ve only got to take it easy because he’s only an amateur and he won’t spar again if I go mad. He’s rushed out at me, he threw a one-two, I’m trying to slip and slide and take my time, then, bash, he hit me with a right uppercut right in the point of my chin. If I’d have had a bit of a weak chin… I’d have been knocked out for a month.
“He's very good, though, and he’s very young – 20. Watch out for that name: Anthony Joshua. He is one [top] prospect for the future.”
Joshua was still two years away from winning gold at the Olympic Games in London. Fury, however, was already 11 fights into his professional career.
“I class myself as one of the top prospects, one of the best heavyweights in the world and he came at me for three rounds and he give me a beating,” Fury said. “I’m not going to deny it; he gave me what for, hell for leather for three rounds. I thought, oh my god an amateur is killing me.
“I thought I could slow him down with a few good body shots and I’m a handful myself. So, for him to put up a performance like that against me, I think he’s one for the future. But sparring ain’t fighting and fighting with a head guard on is not professional boxing.
“I tell it like it is. If the kid was no good, I’d say it. But he is good and I’ll tell anyone that he beat me up in sparring.”
Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Tyson Fury: 'Anthony Joshua hit me so hard I was almost knocked out for a month'
The WWE-style exchange between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua that punctuated the former’s comeback victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov didn’t reveal much about whether the two Britons will ever engage in a professional bout. But it did remind everyone that they've exchanged punches before.
Joshua – when only a 20-year-old up-and-coming amateur – got the better of Fury during a sparring session that took place in 2010. “I beat you up when we were kids,” said Joshua, who refused to succumb to Fury’s goading and accept the offer of a fight.
An audio clip has since emerged from the time of the sparring of a Fury interview, conducted by Steve Bunce, in which Fury, then English heavyweight champion, described getting a “beating” from young Joshua.
“I sparred with the ABA champion [Anthony Joshua]. He’s red hot, him. He’s very good,” the 21-year-old Fury told Bunce in 2010.
“To be honest, I thought to myself I’ve only got to take it easy because he’s only an amateur and he won’t spar again if I go mad. He’s rushed out at me, he threw a one-two, I’m trying to slip and slide and take my time, then, bash, he hit me with a right uppercut right in the point of my chin. If I’d have had a bit of a weak chin… I’d have been knocked out for a month.
“He's very good, though, and he’s very young – 20. Watch out for that name: Anthony Joshua. He is one [top] prospect for the future.”
Joshua was still two years away from winning gold at the Olympic Games in London. Fury, however, was already 11 fights into his professional career.
“I class myself as one of the top prospects, one of the best heavyweights in the world and he came at me for three rounds and he give me a beating,” Fury said. “I’m not going to deny it; he gave me what for, hell for leather for three rounds. I thought, oh my god an amateur is killing me.
“I thought I could slow him down with a few good body shots and I’m a handful myself. So, for him to put up a performance like that against me, I think he’s one for the future. But sparring ain’t fighting and fighting with a head guard on is not professional boxing.
“I tell it like it is. If the kid was no good, I’d say it. But he is good and I’ll tell anyone that he beat me up in sparring.”
The WWE-style exchange between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua that punctuated the former’s comeback victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov didn’t reveal much about whether the two Britons will ever engage in a professional bout. But it did remind everyone that they've exchanged punches before.
Joshua – when only a 20-year-old up-and-coming amateur – got the better of Fury during a sparring session that took place in 2010. “I beat you up when we were kids,” said Joshua, who refused to succumb to Fury’s goading and accept the offer of a fight.
An audio clip has since emerged from the time of the sparring of a Fury interview, conducted by Steve Bunce, in which Fury, then English heavyweight champion, described getting a “beating” from young Joshua.
“I sparred with the ABA champion [Anthony Joshua]. He’s red hot, him. He’s very good,” the 21-year-old Fury told Bunce in 2010.
“To be honest, I thought to myself I’ve only got to take it easy because he’s only an amateur and he won’t spar again if I go mad. He’s rushed out at me, he threw a one-two, I’m trying to slip and slide and take my time, then, bash, he hit me with a right uppercut right in the point of my chin. If I’d have had a bit of a weak chin… I’d have been knocked out for a month.
“He's very good, though, and he’s very young – 20. Watch out for that name: Anthony Joshua. He is one [top] prospect for the future.”
Joshua was still two years away from winning gold at the Olympic Games in London. Fury, however, was already 11 fights into his professional career.
“I class myself as one of the top prospects, one of the best heavyweights in the world and he came at me for three rounds and he give me a beating,” Fury said. “I’m not going to deny it; he gave me what for, hell for leather for three rounds. I thought, oh my god an amateur is killing me.
“I thought I could slow him down with a few good body shots and I’m a handful myself. So, for him to put up a performance like that against me, I think he’s one for the future. But sparring ain’t fighting and fighting with a head guard on is not professional boxing.
“I tell it like it is. If the kid was no good, I’d say it. But he is good and I’ll tell anyone that he beat me up in sparring.”
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Frank~Warren provides clarity on Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua fight talks
Frank~Warren has spoken about the latest developments surrounding the Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua fight.
It appeared that Fury was of the belief that a fight with Joshua was going to be confirmed, but ‘AJ’ stuck to his guns and insisted that negotiations are still ongoing and he won’t commit to anything just yet.
Fury’s promoter Warren has now shared an update on the situation, telling TalkSport that they believed Joshua was about to put pen to paper on a deal, but is still yet to do so.
“Tyson has signed up for this fight. He signed up for the fight at Spurs which he had, and the next fight is supposed to be against AJ in August/September. AJ we were led to believe was about to sign up for the fight and hasn’t done so.
“Does AJ want to continue fighting? I’m told that he does. Does he want to do the fight now or does he want to do a fight in between? That’s not what Tyson signed up for, Tyson signed up for that fight to take place immediately after this one. What Tyson has signed up for he wants to deliver on.
“I genuinely thought when Turki said get in the ring, I expected AJ and Eddie [Hearn] to get in the ring. That’s their business, irrespective of what happens, he hasn’t signed up for that fight, and until he does it’s pointless talking about it. Tyson won’t sit around forever but he’s there and he wants to do the fight and that’s where he’s at.”
As negotiations have been going through boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh, it is typical for both sides to sign their own deal, which is where the confusion lies.
Frank~Warren has spoken about the latest developments surrounding the Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua fight.
It appeared that Fury was of the belief that a fight with Joshua was going to be confirmed, but ‘AJ’ stuck to his guns and insisted that negotiations are still ongoing and he won’t commit to anything just yet.
Fury’s promoter Warren has now shared an update on the situation, telling TalkSport that they believed Joshua was about to put pen to paper on a deal, but is still yet to do so.
“Tyson has signed up for this fight. He signed up for the fight at Spurs which he had, and the next fight is supposed to be against AJ in August/September. AJ we were led to believe was about to sign up for the fight and hasn’t done so.
“Does AJ want to continue fighting? I’m told that he does. Does he want to do the fight now or does he want to do a fight in between? That’s not what Tyson signed up for, Tyson signed up for that fight to take place immediately after this one. What Tyson has signed up for he wants to deliver on.
“I genuinely thought when Turki said get in the ring, I expected AJ and Eddie [Hearn] to get in the ring. That’s their business, irrespective of what happens, he hasn’t signed up for that fight, and until he does it’s pointless talking about it. Tyson won’t sit around forever but he’s there and he wants to do the fight and that’s where he’s at.”
As negotiations have been going through boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh, it is typical for both sides to sign their own deal, which is where the confusion lies.
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Eddie Hearn confirms talks for possible Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua fight
Anthony Joshua will aim to return to the ring in July before going on to face Tyson Fury later in 2026, promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed.
November is now the intended timeframe for Joshua vs. Fury.
Fury issued a public call out to Joshua following his win over Arslanbek Makhmudov on Saturday, which Joshua refused to accept.
While Fury said he has signed for the fight, and insisted Joshua should not delay in facing him, Hearn has confirmed negotiations on their side are underway with Saudi Arabia boxing power broker Turki Alalshikh with a two fight deal -- a bout in the summer and then Fury -- on the table.
Hearn expects a deal to finally be reached, but said nothing has been agreed.
"My instructions from AJ is to make the fight," Hearn told reporters on Tuesday.
"You receive a contract, it's natural to go back with a lot of stuff. Nothing major, a little bit about who he fights in July, when he fights, where the fight's going to be. Still things to negotiate but I wouldn't say 'sticking points.'
"We expect to be out in July and then fight Fury in November."
Hearn said fans can expect to see Joshua face someone of a "similar level" to Makhmudov mid-year before going on to face Fury.
Joshua's preference is for a run out before facing Fury due to inactivity -- with just two fights in 18 months -- and his involvement in a car crash in December. While Joshua sustained only minor injuries and is expected to be cleared to return to full training in the next two weeks, two of his close friends were killed in the crash.
On Saturday, Joshua said he will fight Fury, but refused to commit to anything until contracts were signed.
"I'm going to be completely honest, there's a negotiation that you go through. I've sat at this table with him many times," Joshua said on Netflix.
"I was just in a serious incident maybe four months ago. So, I need to really check out what's going on with my return to the ring. But I'm here. I'm keeping my eye in the game. There's real stuff happening in my life. I'm not ducking no one."
Wembley Stadium in London and Dublin's Croke Park have been floated as potential locations for the Fury fight.
However, Hearn all but ruled out the Irish venue given November is the new target date for the bout and an outdoor arena would be unsuitable in Dublin at that time of year.
Both Joshua and Fury are former two-time heavyweight champions but have never fought despite years of back-and-forth between the two. They came close to a 2021 bout which ultimately fell through -- a matchup that would have been for the undisputed title.
Anthony Joshua will aim to return to the ring in July before going on to face Tyson Fury later in 2026, promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed.
November is now the intended timeframe for Joshua vs. Fury.
Fury issued a public call out to Joshua following his win over Arslanbek Makhmudov on Saturday, which Joshua refused to accept.
While Fury said he has signed for the fight, and insisted Joshua should not delay in facing him, Hearn has confirmed negotiations on their side are underway with Saudi Arabia boxing power broker Turki Alalshikh with a two fight deal -- a bout in the summer and then Fury -- on the table.
Hearn expects a deal to finally be reached, but said nothing has been agreed.
"My instructions from AJ is to make the fight," Hearn told reporters on Tuesday.
"You receive a contract, it's natural to go back with a lot of stuff. Nothing major, a little bit about who he fights in July, when he fights, where the fight's going to be. Still things to negotiate but I wouldn't say 'sticking points.'
"We expect to be out in July and then fight Fury in November."
Hearn said fans can expect to see Joshua face someone of a "similar level" to Makhmudov mid-year before going on to face Fury.
Joshua's preference is for a run out before facing Fury due to inactivity -- with just two fights in 18 months -- and his involvement in a car crash in December. While Joshua sustained only minor injuries and is expected to be cleared to return to full training in the next two weeks, two of his close friends were killed in the crash.
On Saturday, Joshua said he will fight Fury, but refused to commit to anything until contracts were signed.
"I'm going to be completely honest, there's a negotiation that you go through. I've sat at this table with him many times," Joshua said on Netflix.
"I was just in a serious incident maybe four months ago. So, I need to really check out what's going on with my return to the ring. But I'm here. I'm keeping my eye in the game. There's real stuff happening in my life. I'm not ducking no one."
Wembley Stadium in London and Dublin's Croke Park have been floated as potential locations for the Fury fight.
However, Hearn all but ruled out the Irish venue given November is the new target date for the bout and an outdoor arena would be unsuitable in Dublin at that time of year.
Both Joshua and Fury are former two-time heavyweight champions but have never fought despite years of back-and-forth between the two. They came close to a 2021 bout which ultimately fell through -- a matchup that would have been for the undisputed title.
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Joshua v Fury won't happen at Croke Park - Hearn
A heavyweight showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua "is not going to happen at Croke Park", according to Eddie Hearn, who also confirmed he will have talks in Dublin on Friday to secure the stadium for Katie Taylor's farewell fight.
Last week, Croke Park stadium chief executive Peter McKenna suggested a long-awaited fight for Taylor at the 82,000-capacity home of Gaelic games could happen on a card shared with Tyson Fury.
'The Gypsy King' marked his return to the ring after 16 months at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, out-pointing Arslanbek Makhmudov over 12 rounds and immediately calling for a fight with long-time rival Joshua, who was present at ringside.
Although no contracts have been signed, a long-awaited fight between the pair may take place later this year, but it will not be in Dublin according to Hearn, who promotes Joshua and Taylor, who he says deserves to be the star attraction of any big night at Croke Park.
"There is nothing else on the agenda apart from Katie Taylor," Hearn said on Matchroom Boxing's social media channel.
"Anthony Joshua against Tyson Fury, for me, is not going to happen at Croke Park.
"Katie Taylor is not fighting on any undercard. If there is a fight at Croke Park, it should be Katie Taylor and Katie Taylor only.
"That is the whole story; that is the history, the legacy and nothing short of what she deserves, so on Friday, we will be at Croke Park to try and advance those talks."
'We'll do all we can to make Taylor's dreams come true'
However, Hearn feels the time is right to try again and says he and his team will "do everything we can to make it happen".
"There's massive public demand and momentum for this to happen," he added.
"Katie Taylor has made it clear she wants to fight one final time. She has done everything in the sport you can do: she's European amateur champion, world amateur, Olympic gold medallist, world champion, unified champion and undisputed champion.
"She's sold out Madison Square Garden, boxed at Wembley Stadium, the Millennium Stadium, so this is the moment Irish sport stops and pays homage to not just one of the greatest people of all time, but one of the greatest athletes ever to come out of Ireland.
"She deserves this so much and we'll do everything we can to make it happen."
A heavyweight showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua "is not going to happen at Croke Park", according to Eddie Hearn, who also confirmed he will have talks in Dublin on Friday to secure the stadium for Katie Taylor's farewell fight.
Last week, Croke Park stadium chief executive Peter McKenna suggested a long-awaited fight for Taylor at the 82,000-capacity home of Gaelic games could happen on a card shared with Tyson Fury.
'The Gypsy King' marked his return to the ring after 16 months at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, out-pointing Arslanbek Makhmudov over 12 rounds and immediately calling for a fight with long-time rival Joshua, who was present at ringside.
Although no contracts have been signed, a long-awaited fight between the pair may take place later this year, but it will not be in Dublin according to Hearn, who promotes Joshua and Taylor, who he says deserves to be the star attraction of any big night at Croke Park.
"There is nothing else on the agenda apart from Katie Taylor," Hearn said on Matchroom Boxing's social media channel.
"Anthony Joshua against Tyson Fury, for me, is not going to happen at Croke Park.
"Katie Taylor is not fighting on any undercard. If there is a fight at Croke Park, it should be Katie Taylor and Katie Taylor only.
"That is the whole story; that is the history, the legacy and nothing short of what she deserves, so on Friday, we will be at Croke Park to try and advance those talks."
'We'll do all we can to make Taylor's dreams come true'
However, Hearn feels the time is right to try again and says he and his team will "do everything we can to make it happen".
"There's massive public demand and momentum for this to happen," he added.
"Katie Taylor has made it clear she wants to fight one final time. She has done everything in the sport you can do: she's European amateur champion, world amateur, Olympic gold medallist, world champion, unified champion and undisputed champion.
"She's sold out Madison Square Garden, boxed at Wembley Stadium, the Millennium Stadium, so this is the moment Irish sport stops and pays homage to not just one of the greatest people of all time, but one of the greatest athletes ever to come out of Ireland.
"She deserves this so much and we'll do everything we can to make it happen."
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Anthony Joshua-Tyson Fury: It is being planned for November, Eddie Hearn confirms
Eddie Hearn today confirmed that he's under "instructions" from Anthony Joshua to make the fight with Tyson Fury this year.
On Saturday, the 35-2-1 (24 KOs) Fury outpointed Arslanbek Makhmudov over 12 rounds to end a 16-month hiatus. Immediately afterwards he called out Joshua, who was ringside, and demanded the fight be signed and sealed there and then. Joshua neither obliged nor turned down the offer of the long awaited showdown.
The 36-year-old last fought in December, knocking out Jake Paul in six rounds. It was then expected that Joshua, 29-4 (26 KOs), would engage entertain Rico Verhoeven in March this year before taking on Fury in August. Tragedy quickly followed, however, when Joshua was injured in a car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his closest friends.
According to Hearn, Joshua is awaiting clearance from doctors to return to full-time training.
"My instructions [from Joshua] are 'make the [Fury] fight'," Hearn said.
"We all know that, around the [time of the] Jake Paul fight, the fight was virtually done. We were going to fight in March [in a warm-up] and fight [Fury] in August. But with everything that has happened, it's been a very difficult time, and that plan has been delayed.
"The same plan still exists. The offer that we received from [Turki Alalshikh] is to fight in July and fight Tyson Fury around November. We're up for that.
"We need to make sure of the timings. The last Saturday of July is 14 weeks away. We need to get that all clear, physically, to return to full-time training, to sparring, which is a different kettle of fish versus getting on a treadmill. This is intense full-time training.
"We believe we're going to be given the all-clear to do that because 'AJ' feels like he's ready.
"If we do that, get everything locked up, I'm fully confident that this fight happens."
Eddie Hearn today confirmed that he's under "instructions" from Anthony Joshua to make the fight with Tyson Fury this year.
On Saturday, the 35-2-1 (24 KOs) Fury outpointed Arslanbek Makhmudov over 12 rounds to end a 16-month hiatus. Immediately afterwards he called out Joshua, who was ringside, and demanded the fight be signed and sealed there and then. Joshua neither obliged nor turned down the offer of the long awaited showdown.
The 36-year-old last fought in December, knocking out Jake Paul in six rounds. It was then expected that Joshua, 29-4 (26 KOs), would engage entertain Rico Verhoeven in March this year before taking on Fury in August. Tragedy quickly followed, however, when Joshua was injured in a car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his closest friends.
According to Hearn, Joshua is awaiting clearance from doctors to return to full-time training.
"My instructions [from Joshua] are 'make the [Fury] fight'," Hearn said.
"We all know that, around the [time of the] Jake Paul fight, the fight was virtually done. We were going to fight in March [in a warm-up] and fight [Fury] in August. But with everything that has happened, it's been a very difficult time, and that plan has been delayed.
"The same plan still exists. The offer that we received from [Turki Alalshikh] is to fight in July and fight Tyson Fury around November. We're up for that.
"We need to make sure of the timings. The last Saturday of July is 14 weeks away. We need to get that all clear, physically, to return to full-time training, to sparring, which is a different kettle of fish versus getting on a treadmill. This is intense full-time training.
"We believe we're going to be given the all-clear to do that because 'AJ' feels like he's ready.
"If we do that, get everything locked up, I'm fully confident that this fight happens."
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Fury-Joshua showdown moving closer as AJ plots return
The long-awaited Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua showdown is inching closer to reality.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn said that former two-time unified heavyweight titleholder Joshua’s plan is to return in July and then face former champion Fury in November in an all-British mega fight that remains the biggest fight that can be made in boxing.
The fight has gone unmade for years despite various negotiations but has again reached a fever pitch with Fury’s vociferous call out of Joshua following Fury’s one-sided decision over Arslanbek Makhmudov on Netflix on April 11 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Joshua watched at ringside but declined to face off with Fury in the ring after the bout or commit to the fight as he continues to deal with minor injuries from a December car accident and the deaths of two close friends in the crash on the outskirts of Lagos, Nigeria, where they were vacationing following Joshua’s knockout of Jake Paul two weeks earlier.
Still, Hearn told reporters at the recent Oleksandr Usyk-Rico Verhoeven news conference in London that he is negotiating a two-fight deal with Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh to put on the July fight and then the Fury showdown, which was close to being made before Joshua’s car accident.
The long-awaited Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua showdown is inching closer to reality.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn said that former two-time unified heavyweight titleholder Joshua’s plan is to return in July and then face former champion Fury in November in an all-British mega fight that remains the biggest fight that can be made in boxing.
The fight has gone unmade for years despite various negotiations but has again reached a fever pitch with Fury’s vociferous call out of Joshua following Fury’s one-sided decision over Arslanbek Makhmudov on Netflix on April 11 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Joshua watched at ringside but declined to face off with Fury in the ring after the bout or commit to the fight as he continues to deal with minor injuries from a December car accident and the deaths of two close friends in the crash on the outskirts of Lagos, Nigeria, where they were vacationing following Joshua’s knockout of Jake Paul two weeks earlier.
Still, Hearn told reporters at the recent Oleksandr Usyk-Rico Verhoeven news conference in London that he is negotiating a two-fight deal with Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alalshikh to put on the July fight and then the Fury showdown, which was close to being made before Joshua’s car accident.
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
TYSON FURY vs ANTHONY JOSHUA (Event promoter announced)Eddie Hearn has confirmed that FURY/AJ will not be promoted by Matchroom or allegedly’s Queensbury. The fight will in fact be promoted by Sela/Ring & @Turki_alalshikh
Source: Ifl tv
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury showdown could take place in UK as Eddie Hearn reveals talks enter final stages
Anthony Joshua-Tyson Fury talks near completion as Eddie Hearn pushes for the historic heavyweight showdown to take place in the UK; Joshua set for a July warm-up bout before much-anticipated all-British clash with Fury in November
An all‑British heavyweight showdown in the United Kingdom is moving closer to reality, with promoter Eddie Hearn revealing plans are advancing for Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury to finally meet on home soil.
Hearn said he is "hopeful" that Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh will choose the UK as the venue for the long‑awaited clash, which is being targeted for November and billed as the biggest fight in the nation's history.
While no contract has yet been signed, Hearn confirmed that negotiations are in their final stages.
The bout would follow a July comeback fight for Joshua, setting up what Hearn described as "not the fight of the century, the fight of all‑time" for British fans.
Fury and Joshua fuelled anticipation earlier this month when they traded barbs at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, reigniting excitement for a matchup that has collapsed multiple times in the past.
Hearn said the remaining contractual details are close to being resolved, after which staging decisions will fall to Alalshikh.
"We will have a contract and we haven't signed a contract yet, but we are negotiating the final points in an agreement to come back to the ring in July and (then) fight Tyson Fury," Hearn told iFL TV.
"Once we sign up for that agreement, it is over to (Turki) for the staging. We (Matchroom) will be promoting for July. I would think that the November fight or whatever it will be, will be promoted by Sela.
"Myself and AJ, Tyson Fury, we'll have a contract where (Alalshikh) is basically funding the fight. It's up to him where it is.
"Now, he also wants to make history. He is not going to put it in some random place. He wants this to deliver for the fans what it is - which is the biggest fight in the history of our country. I am hopeful that the fight takes place in the UK."
The push for a UK showdown comes after Fury and Joshua traded words at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 11, reigniting speculation around a domestic clash that has repeatedly fallen through in the past.
Hearn added that Joshua's July bout is still being finalised, adding: "The good news is if we take a (warm-up) fight like this, we have signed to fight Tyson Fury and all you've got to do is bite your fingernails in July for 36 minutes or less and you've got not the fight of the century, the fight of all-time."
Fury had previously warned Joshua not to delay with a warm‑up fight - despite taking one himself against Arslanbek Makhmudov - but Hearn said the decision was influenced by the undisputed champion.
"I am sure they won't mind me saying it, a lot of this has come from Oleksandr Usyk. He was part of these conversations and the conversations were absolutely he is having a comeback fight," Hearn said.
Anthony Joshua-Tyson Fury talks near completion as Eddie Hearn pushes for the historic heavyweight showdown to take place in the UK; Joshua set for a July warm-up bout before much-anticipated all-British clash with Fury in November
An all‑British heavyweight showdown in the United Kingdom is moving closer to reality, with promoter Eddie Hearn revealing plans are advancing for Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury to finally meet on home soil.
Hearn said he is "hopeful" that Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh will choose the UK as the venue for the long‑awaited clash, which is being targeted for November and billed as the biggest fight in the nation's history.
While no contract has yet been signed, Hearn confirmed that negotiations are in their final stages.
The bout would follow a July comeback fight for Joshua, setting up what Hearn described as "not the fight of the century, the fight of all‑time" for British fans.
Fury and Joshua fuelled anticipation earlier this month when they traded barbs at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, reigniting excitement for a matchup that has collapsed multiple times in the past.
Hearn said the remaining contractual details are close to being resolved, after which staging decisions will fall to Alalshikh.
"We will have a contract and we haven't signed a contract yet, but we are negotiating the final points in an agreement to come back to the ring in July and (then) fight Tyson Fury," Hearn told iFL TV.
"Once we sign up for that agreement, it is over to (Turki) for the staging. We (Matchroom) will be promoting for July. I would think that the November fight or whatever it will be, will be promoted by Sela.
"Myself and AJ, Tyson Fury, we'll have a contract where (Alalshikh) is basically funding the fight. It's up to him where it is.
"Now, he also wants to make history. He is not going to put it in some random place. He wants this to deliver for the fans what it is - which is the biggest fight in the history of our country. I am hopeful that the fight takes place in the UK."
The push for a UK showdown comes after Fury and Joshua traded words at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 11, reigniting speculation around a domestic clash that has repeatedly fallen through in the past.
Hearn added that Joshua's July bout is still being finalised, adding: "The good news is if we take a (warm-up) fight like this, we have signed to fight Tyson Fury and all you've got to do is bite your fingernails in July for 36 minutes or less and you've got not the fight of the century, the fight of all-time."
Fury had previously warned Joshua not to delay with a warm‑up fight - despite taking one himself against Arslanbek Makhmudov - but Hearn said the decision was influenced by the undisputed champion.
"I am sure they won't mind me saying it, a lot of this has come from Oleksandr Usyk. He was part of these conversations and the conversations were absolutely he is having a comeback fight," Hearn said.
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
Breaking news! Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua is a done deal, I’m told, for the fourth quarter of this year, @ringmagazine show on Netflix! Biggest fight in UK history. And like so many other major fights, it’s happening because of @Turki_alalshikh. Canelo-Crawford, Beterbiev-Bivol, Usyk-Fury and too many others to name.
Is he saying what we think he’s saying?
Is he saying what we think he’s saying?
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua - Winter 2026
THE COMEBACK 
ANNOUNCED: Anthony Joshua will return to the ring against Kristian Prenga on July 25th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia as part of Esports World Cup
#JoshuaPrenga | July 25th | Exclusively on DAZN
ANNOUNCED: Anthony Joshua will return to the ring against Kristian Prenga on July 25th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia as part of Esports World Cup
#JoshuaPrenga | July 25th | Exclusively on DAZN
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Sendo Takeshi
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
I'm too casual to know Prenga. Seems like the same type of guy as Makhmudov; a hard hitter with no achievments.
I rather they went with Wilder. Wilder is so washed, he counts as a build-up fight.
I rather they went with Wilder. Wilder is so washed, he counts as a build-up fight.
Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
He's much less proven than Makhmudov. Dawejko is the only guy that he beat that even most hardcore fans would recognise.Sendo Takeshi wrote: ↑27 Apr 2026, 10:11 I'm too casual to know Prenga. Seems like the same type of guy as Makhmudov; a hard hitter with no achievments.
I rather they went with Wilder. Wilder is so washed, he counts as a build-up fight.
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
At least we heard of Mak..
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
DONE DEAL Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua
Q4, 2026
Netflix-
Thomastearns
- Super Lightweight
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
It's a very sensible option for AJ to take on as safe as possible return to the ring after that tragic accident in Lagos last December that left 2 men dead, AJs personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami, and one other, Adeniyi Mobolaji, the alleged driver, still on trial, 4th adjournment notwithstanding.
As of 27th April 2026, the events of that incident in Nigeria remain shrouded in mystery as there doesn't appear to be any dashcam footage either from the Lexus that was carrying Joshua or from the convoy vehicle, a Pajero SUV that was travelling in tandem.
The Fury camp must believe that Anthony Joshua is now damaged goods, probably past their sell-by damaged goods, and that this is the best possible time to cash in.
Fury also understands, being the ruthless businessman he is, that the sands of time on his boxing career are also disappearing fast.
One last gigantic payday, and he can finally retire for good. No more pesky inconvenient drug testing to avoid.
Here's hoping he's also made one gigantic mistake.
I'd love to see Joshua continuing his contact with the Usyk camp and somehow hone his skills back to a peak for the showdown every HW boxing fan wants to see, whether they care to admit it or not.
As of 27th April 2026, the events of that incident in Nigeria remain shrouded in mystery as there doesn't appear to be any dashcam footage either from the Lexus that was carrying Joshua or from the convoy vehicle, a Pajero SUV that was travelling in tandem.
The Fury camp must believe that Anthony Joshua is now damaged goods, probably past their sell-by damaged goods, and that this is the best possible time to cash in.
Fury also understands, being the ruthless businessman he is, that the sands of time on his boxing career are also disappearing fast.
One last gigantic payday, and he can finally retire for good. No more pesky inconvenient drug testing to avoid.
Here's hoping he's also made one gigantic mistake.
I'd love to see Joshua continuing his contact with the Usyk camp and somehow hone his skills back to a peak for the showdown every HW boxing fan wants to see, whether they care to admit it or not.
Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
Prenga is a waste of time. 1 round ko
Hes been fed a steady diet of stiffs. Some have clearly taken dives.
Hes been fed a steady diet of stiffs. Some have clearly taken dives.
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Sendo Takeshi
- Flyweight
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
Yeah. Wach, Takam and Allen are actually nice wins for Mak.joshj909 wrote: ↑27 Apr 2026, 10:20He's much less proven than Makhmudov. Dawejko is the only guy that he beat that even most hardcore fans would recognise.Sendo Takeshi wrote: ↑27 Apr 2026, 10:11 I'm too casual to know Prenga. Seems like the same type of guy as Makhmudov; a hard hitter with no achievments.
I rather they went with Wilder. Wilder is so washed, he counts as a build-up fight.
Prenga doesn't even have anything near that.
This is probaly gonna be an unspectacular early/mid fight ko for AJ.
I hope my boi Prenga pulls it off so he can fight Fury for the undisputed Intercontinental plastic belt or whatever.
Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
Does anyone remember when Hughie fought 17-0 Chris Norrad and it looked like Norrad hadn't trained a day in his life? It later transpired that Allen had tried to bring in Norrad for a fight on the Usyk/Bellew card but Hearn said there's no way that Norrad could be televised because he looked that bad. He ended up facing Bracamonte. Wonder how far away Prenga is from that?
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whiskeyrecord
- Bantamweight
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Ruthless-RKO
- Welterweight
- Posts: 100664
- Joined: 24 Apr 2016, 11:59
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Ruthless-RKO
- Welterweight
- Posts: 100664
- Joined: 24 Apr 2016, 11:59
Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
‘Wherever we’re told’: Eddie Hearn says Turki Alalshikh will choose location for Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury
Eddie Hearn says the UK is the obvious place to host Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury but it’ll be up to the Saudi financier to make the call.
After recent news broke that a British heavyweight fight between Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury had finally been signed, it was a bit curious that the announcement came without a specific date or venue. In an interview with Fight Hype, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn confirms that they have actually put pen to paper for a fight against Fury and the contract itself makes it explicitly clear that the venue (and by virtue the date) will be up to the sole discretion of Turki Alalshikh.
“What we know is the fight is signed by both fighters,” Hearn said. “I mean, Fury’s already said he signed it. We’ve now signed our end as well, so the fight is done. The location of that will be down to Turki Alalshikh. I think the one thing I’ll say about Turki Alalshikh is he’s a mad boxing fan. And he knows that that fight in the UK is historic, so I think he wants to give British fight fans something they’ll remember forever.
“However, he’s also the one paying the bill. So, really he has to look at where that fight makes sense for the business and for them as well. So wherever it is, it is. It’s not down to us to make those decisions, or AJ, or Tyson Fury. Ultimately, we signed a contract to fight wherever we’re told to fight is. Obviously everybody wants the fight to take place in the UK but we’ll see what transpires. The fight’s going to be mega and to do it in the UK is going to be really special.”
Hearn was then asked about the likelihood of it taking place around mid-November.
“I think that’s about the time frame they’re talking about,” Hearn responded. “Obviously [Joshua’s] going to fight end of July and then after that camp a few weeks off, maybe even August off, and then back into camp right at the beginning of September…”
Eddie Hearn says the UK is the obvious place to host Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury but it’ll be up to the Saudi financier to make the call.
After recent news broke that a British heavyweight fight between Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury had finally been signed, it was a bit curious that the announcement came without a specific date or venue. In an interview with Fight Hype, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn confirms that they have actually put pen to paper for a fight against Fury and the contract itself makes it explicitly clear that the venue (and by virtue the date) will be up to the sole discretion of Turki Alalshikh.
“What we know is the fight is signed by both fighters,” Hearn said. “I mean, Fury’s already said he signed it. We’ve now signed our end as well, so the fight is done. The location of that will be down to Turki Alalshikh. I think the one thing I’ll say about Turki Alalshikh is he’s a mad boxing fan. And he knows that that fight in the UK is historic, so I think he wants to give British fight fans something they’ll remember forever.
“However, he’s also the one paying the bill. So, really he has to look at where that fight makes sense for the business and for them as well. So wherever it is, it is. It’s not down to us to make those decisions, or AJ, or Tyson Fury. Ultimately, we signed a contract to fight wherever we’re told to fight is. Obviously everybody wants the fight to take place in the UK but we’ll see what transpires. The fight’s going to be mega and to do it in the UK is going to be really special.”
Hearn was then asked about the likelihood of it taking place around mid-November.
“I think that’s about the time frame they’re talking about,” Hearn responded. “Obviously [Joshua’s] going to fight end of July and then after that camp a few weeks off, maybe even August off, and then back into camp right at the beginning of September…”
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
I hope everything is in the contracts..
Ringwalks, MC announces, dressing‑room disputes, gloves..
Ringwalks, MC announces, dressing‑room disputes, gloves..
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Ruthless-RKO
- Welterweight
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
Tyson Fury could also take warm-up bout before Anthony Joshua fight | 'Tyson wants to keep busy,' says Frank~Warren
Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are finally set to box later this year; but Joshua will first have a warm-up fight in July and Fury could elect to have an interim bout of his own too; Fury's promoter Frank~Warren said: "Tyson wants to keep busy. Tyson has to have focus in his life"
Tyson Fury could also take an interim bout before boxing Anthony Joshua later this year.
The Fury vs AJ showdown is set to take place before the end of 2026 but first Joshua will have a warm-up contest on July 25 in Riyadh.
Fury, who returned to boxing earlier this month after a year-long retirement, will also consider having his own warm-up too, potentially also in July.
His promoter Frank~Warren told Sky Sports: "He may decide he wants to do another fight."
Warren explained: "It wouldn't surprise me. Tyson wants to keep busy. Tyson has to have focus in his life as far as boxing is concerned. It's having a date. And at this moment there is no date [for the Joshua fight] because obviously AJ's fighting in July."
Joshua losing to Kristian Prenga, the little known Albanian he will fight in the summer, could be a problem for the Fury fight going ahead.
"We'll have to talk about that afterwards. Let's hope he doesn't lose," Warren said. "If he ain't going to beat this fellow he ain't going to beat Tyson that's for sure. He's got to go out and do a job.
"This fight is here for him to win and get all the cobwebs out and some of the mental problems that he may have, or not, from that terrible tragedy of losing his two friends in that car crash. So that's what it's all about."
Assuming Joshua wins this bout and Fury gets through any potential warm-up of his own, a date still needs to be set for their heavyweight super-fight. That would likely be in October or November.
"AJ's fighting on the 25th of July, he'll want to go back into camp, that's the sort of timescale," Warren said. "Tyson would prefer to do it as soon as possible. He'd prefer to do it in August/September."
The venue too still has to be confirmed, but Wembley Stadium would be a natural home for a fight of this magnitude. "We'd all like it in the UK but we'll see," Warren said.
He does not, though, anticipate any arguments over who is the A-side or the B-side, who ringwalks first or second, derailing the fight.
"That's got to be all decided but I've got to be honest, for me, it wouldn't bother me in the slightest because, for me, there's only one winner," Warren said backing his fighter, Fury.
"The money they're getting paid, they can skip in, do cartwheels into the ring. They're receiving huge purses for this. It's all about box office and demand and thanks to the interest of the Saudis and them financing it.
"It's huge money."
A curveball could be the unexpected stipulation that Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh wants Dua Lipa to perform at the event. But Warren does not think that will be a roadblock to the Fury vs Joshua showdown eventually happening.
"I doubt it very much," he said.
Warren concluded: "Hopefully there's going to be no hiccups and we'll get it.
"It's the big fight. It's finally on and it'll capture everybody's imagination."
Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are finally set to box later this year; but Joshua will first have a warm-up fight in July and Fury could elect to have an interim bout of his own too; Fury's promoter Frank~Warren said: "Tyson wants to keep busy. Tyson has to have focus in his life"
Tyson Fury could also take an interim bout before boxing Anthony Joshua later this year.
The Fury vs AJ showdown is set to take place before the end of 2026 but first Joshua will have a warm-up contest on July 25 in Riyadh.
Fury, who returned to boxing earlier this month after a year-long retirement, will also consider having his own warm-up too, potentially also in July.
His promoter Frank~Warren told Sky Sports: "He may decide he wants to do another fight."
Warren explained: "It wouldn't surprise me. Tyson wants to keep busy. Tyson has to have focus in his life as far as boxing is concerned. It's having a date. And at this moment there is no date [for the Joshua fight] because obviously AJ's fighting in July."
Joshua losing to Kristian Prenga, the little known Albanian he will fight in the summer, could be a problem for the Fury fight going ahead.
"We'll have to talk about that afterwards. Let's hope he doesn't lose," Warren said. "If he ain't going to beat this fellow he ain't going to beat Tyson that's for sure. He's got to go out and do a job.
"This fight is here for him to win and get all the cobwebs out and some of the mental problems that he may have, or not, from that terrible tragedy of losing his two friends in that car crash. So that's what it's all about."
Assuming Joshua wins this bout and Fury gets through any potential warm-up of his own, a date still needs to be set for their heavyweight super-fight. That would likely be in October or November.
"AJ's fighting on the 25th of July, he'll want to go back into camp, that's the sort of timescale," Warren said. "Tyson would prefer to do it as soon as possible. He'd prefer to do it in August/September."
The venue too still has to be confirmed, but Wembley Stadium would be a natural home for a fight of this magnitude. "We'd all like it in the UK but we'll see," Warren said.
He does not, though, anticipate any arguments over who is the A-side or the B-side, who ringwalks first or second, derailing the fight.
"That's got to be all decided but I've got to be honest, for me, it wouldn't bother me in the slightest because, for me, there's only one winner," Warren said backing his fighter, Fury.
"The money they're getting paid, they can skip in, do cartwheels into the ring. They're receiving huge purses for this. It's all about box office and demand and thanks to the interest of the Saudis and them financing it.
"It's huge money."
A curveball could be the unexpected stipulation that Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh wants Dua Lipa to perform at the event. But Warren does not think that will be a roadblock to the Fury vs Joshua showdown eventually happening.
"I doubt it very much," he said.
Warren concluded: "Hopefully there's going to be no hiccups and we'll get it.
"It's the big fight. It's finally on and it'll capture everybody's imagination."
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua | NETFLIX - Winter 2026
Dua Lipa declines offer to perform at Fury v Joshua
Pop star Dua Lipa is not expected to perform at the heavyweight bout between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury later this year.
Britons Joshua, 36, and Fury, 37, have agreed terms for a long-awaited all-British contest targeted for the end of 2026.
However, Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority chairman Turki Al-Sheikh had suggested the fight could be jeopardised if Dua Lipa did not agree to perform as part of the event's promotion.
It is unclear whether the remark was made in earnest or in jest, but BBC Sport understands the 30-year-old singer was approached about performing but declined the offer, and is not expected to be involved in the event.
Dua Lipa is one of the world's most successful pop artists, with global hits including New Rules, Don't Start Now and Levitating'.
A venue for Fury v Joshua has yet to be finalised, although Wembley Stadium in October is understood to be the preferred option for organisers.
Musical acts at high-profile boxing events have become a popular feature in recent years.
Rapper Eminem accompanied Terence Crawford to the ring for his welterweight championship fight against Errol Spence Jr. Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher performed several songs before Daniel Dubois' win over Anthony Joshua at Wembley in 2024. And last year, 50 Cent performed during Chris Eubank Jr's ringwalk for his rematch with Conor Benn.
Before any bout with Fury can take place, former unified champion Joshua must first come through his scheduled fight against Kristian Prenga on 25 July in Saudi Arabia.
Fury made his comeback from retirement with a win over Arslanbek Makhmudov last month, but is exploring taking another bout as he waits for Joshua.
Queensberry promoter allegedly, who guides Fury, said a loss for Joshua in July would likely scupper a fight with the Gypsy King.
Joshua and Fury have long been linked with a fight, but several attempts to get them in the ring together over the past 10 years failed.
Should the fight go ahead as planned, both men are expected to earn a career-high payday.
Pop star Dua Lipa is not expected to perform at the heavyweight bout between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury later this year.
Britons Joshua, 36, and Fury, 37, have agreed terms for a long-awaited all-British contest targeted for the end of 2026.
However, Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority chairman Turki Al-Sheikh had suggested the fight could be jeopardised if Dua Lipa did not agree to perform as part of the event's promotion.
It is unclear whether the remark was made in earnest or in jest, but BBC Sport understands the 30-year-old singer was approached about performing but declined the offer, and is not expected to be involved in the event.
Dua Lipa is one of the world's most successful pop artists, with global hits including New Rules, Don't Start Now and Levitating'.
A venue for Fury v Joshua has yet to be finalised, although Wembley Stadium in October is understood to be the preferred option for organisers.
Musical acts at high-profile boxing events have become a popular feature in recent years.
Rapper Eminem accompanied Terence Crawford to the ring for his welterweight championship fight against Errol Spence Jr. Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher performed several songs before Daniel Dubois' win over Anthony Joshua at Wembley in 2024. And last year, 50 Cent performed during Chris Eubank Jr's ringwalk for his rematch with Conor Benn.
Before any bout with Fury can take place, former unified champion Joshua must first come through his scheduled fight against Kristian Prenga on 25 July in Saudi Arabia.
Fury made his comeback from retirement with a win over Arslanbek Makhmudov last month, but is exploring taking another bout as he waits for Joshua.
Queensberry promoter allegedly, who guides Fury, said a loss for Joshua in July would likely scupper a fight with the Gypsy King.
Joshua and Fury have long been linked with a fight, but several attempts to get them in the ring together over the past 10 years failed.
Should the fight go ahead as planned, both men are expected to earn a career-high payday.