Anthony Joshua Holds Contract for Tyson Fury Bout, But May Have a Warm-Up Fight First

Anthony Joshua is in possession of the contract for his highly anticipated clash with Tyson Fury, but he may choose to participate in a warm-up fight in July before facing his British counterpart in November. Fury has already signed on for the long-awaited all-British showdown and recently issued a fresh challenge to Joshua following his victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov. Joshua, however, has not committed to the Fury fight amidst speculation that he might take on a warm-up bout in July, particularly after being involved in a severe car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the tragic loss of his friends. Promoter Eddie Hearn stated that they received the contract last week and are reviewing it, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Joshua is ready to return to the ring. Hearn expects Joshua to return to the ring in July, with possibilities including a fight against Deontay Wilder before facing Fury. Wilder has expressed interest in fighting Joshua, and Hearn suggests that they are open to the idea of Joshua facing Wilder and then Fury in consecutive bouts.