Joshua Set to Face Fury, But a July Warm-Up Fight May Come First

Anthony Joshua is poised to clash with Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated battle, with the contract for the fight reportedly in hand. However, there is a possibility that Joshua may engage in a warm-up bout in July before facing Fury in November. This comes after Fury recently emerged victorious over Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and subsequently issued a challenge to Joshua. Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, has stated that while Fury may have signed a contract, the focus is on ensuring Joshua is ready to return to the ring, particularly given the significant events that have transpired in his life. Hearn expects Joshua to return to the ring in July, with the original plan to fight in March and then face Fury in August having been delayed. There is speculation that Joshua's July bout could be against Deontay Wilder, with Hearn indicating that they are exploring the possibility of Joshua facing Wilder and then Fury in back-to-back fights. Wilder's camp, however, claims that no discussions have taken place regarding a potential fight against Joshua.