Anthony Joshua Has Tyson Fury Contract, But May Have July Warm-Up Fight First

Anthony Joshua is in possession of the contract for his highly anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury, but he may opt for a warm-up fight in July before facing his British rival in November. Fury has already signed on for the long-awaited all-British mega fight and has issued a fresh challenge to Joshua following his points victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov. Joshua's commitment to the Fury fight has been uncertain due to speculation that he may take a warm-up bout in July, after being involved in a serious car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the tragic deaths of his friends. Promoter Eddie Hearn stated that they received the contract last week and are reviewing it, ensuring Joshua is ready to return to the ring after a series of personal setbacks. Hearn expects Joshua to return to the ring in July, with possible opponents including Deontay Wilder, before facing Fury in November. Wilder has expressed interest in fighting Joshua, and Hearn is open to the possibility of Joshua facing Wilder and Fury back-to-back.