AJ Refuses to Commit to Fury Showdown After Ring Call-Out

Anthony Joshua stated he will likely face Tyson Fury next, but declined to accept Fury's immediate challenge for a highly anticipated British heavyweight bout later this year. Following Fury's victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov, he called out Joshua, saying 'I want you, AJ, Anthony Joshua. Let's give the fight fans what they want - the Battle of Britain.' Joshua, however, remained uncommitted, stating 'I've never had a problem getting in the ring with you... With all due respect, tonight is your night and you know I'll be across that ring from you in due time.' He emphasized that he will not be told what to do, saying 'I'm the boss, you work for me. I'm the landlord.' Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, also refused to engage in discussions in the ring, instead preferring official contract negotiations. In an interview, Joshua clarified his stance, explaining 'In my heart I'll fight Tyson Fury tomorrow... Contracts will be sent over. We'll go through the nitty-gritty and you'll probably see us in the ring next.' A bout between Joshua and Fury has been discussed for years but has yet to come to fruition, with Joshua blaming Fury's approach for the delay. Joshua has only fought once since losing to Daniel Dubois in September 2024 and is currently dealing with the aftermath of a serious car accident in Nigeria. He stated 'I need to check out what's going on with my return to the ring... There's real stuff happening in my life, I'm not ducking anybody.'