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

Anthony Joshua has received a contract for a highly anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury, but he may participate in a warm-up fight in July before facing his British rival in November. Following Fury's victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov, he signed a contract for the long-awaited all-British mega fight and issued a fresh challenge to Joshua. However, Joshua has not committed to the fight after being involved in a serious car accident in Nigeria, which resulted in the tragic deaths of his friends. Promoter Eddie Hearn stated that they are reviewing the contract and want to ensure Joshua is ready to return to the ring. Hearn expects Joshua to return to the ring in July, with a potential fight against Deontay Wilder, before facing Fury in November. Wilder's camp has not yet engaged in discussions about a potential fight. Hearn believes a warm-up fight for Joshua is likely, given the circumstances, and they are exploring the possibility of Joshua facing Wilder and Fury back-to-back.