Joshua Holds Fury Contract, But a July Tune-Up Fight May Precede

Anthony Joshua is in possession of the contract for his highly anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury, although he may first engage in a warm-up bout in July before facing his British counterpart in November. Fury has already committed to the all-British super fight and recently issued a fresh challenge to Joshua following his victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Joshua, however, has not committed to the Fury fight due to speculation surrounding a potential warm-up bout in July, which comes after his involvement in a severe car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the tragic loss of his friends. Promoter Eddie Hearn stated, 'We received the contract last week and are reviewing it. Given the recent events in AJ's life, we want to ensure he's ready for his return to the ring.' 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 they are exploring the possibility of AJ facing Wilder and then Fury back-to-back. Hearn believes it is likely Joshua will have a tune-up fight, given the circumstances, and that Wilder would be a separate deal. He emphasized that they are willing to fight Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury consecutively.