Joshua Has Fury Contract, But a Warm-Up Fight May Come 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. Following his recent victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov, Fury has already signed on for the all-British mega fight and has issued a fresh challenge to Joshua. However, Joshua has yet to commit to the fight, sparking speculation that he may take on a tune-up bout in July, particularly after being involved in a serious car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the tragic loss of his friends. Promoter Eddie Hearn revealed that Joshua's team received the contract last week and is currently reviewing it, with Hearn stating that they want to ensure Joshua is ready to return to the ring after a tumultuous period in his life. Hearn expects Joshua to return to the ring in July, with a potential fight against Deontay Wilder being explored. Wilder has expressed interest in facing Joshua, and Hearn is open to the possibility of Joshua facing Wilder and then Fury in back-to-back fights. Despite these plans, Wilder's camp claims that no discussions have taken place yet.