Frank Warren believes that the highly anticipated heavyweight bout between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will ultimately be staged in the United States, despite recent rumours suggesting the fight might be in jeopardy. The two British former world champions appeared poised to meet in London this November, but the Saudi‑backed promotion company Sela has expressed a strong preference for an American venue, creating a fresh set of complications. Eddie Hearn, who represents Joshua, has been vocal about keeping the showdown on British soil.
His insistence prompted Fury to comment last week that the fight was "in serious doubt" because his opponent’s camp was demanding a larger purse. Nevertheless, Warren, who handles Fury’s affairs, has moved to calm the speculation, asserting that the Gypsy King would have liked the contest to happen in the UK as well. Speaking to Sky Sports News, Warren said, "I genuinely think it will happen. His Excellency, Turki Al‑Alsheikh, will announce it very soon.
I know there have been some contractual hiccups between Matchroom and AJ; I’m confident they will be ironed out." He added that Fury is already in the United States, training out of Miami, and preparing for the fight. Warren explained that both fighters would love to see the event staged at Wembley, but the ultimate decision now rests with the broadcaster and the promoters who are pushing for an American location. "They could refuse to fight, but we don’t get the fight we want to see," he said.
"Given the massive financial stakes, I hope I’m wrong, but I think it will end up in America." He also pointed out that holding a marquee bout outside the United Kingdom would not be unprecedented in boxing history. "You had two massive American heroes in Muhammad Ali and George Foreman," Warren noted. "All the Americans wanted to see it, Vegas wanted to host it, Madison Square Garden wanted it, and it eventually took place in Zaire.
Everyone wondered why, but it became an iconic moment in sport." Warren reminded listeners of other historic fights that occurred far from the fighters’ home countries, such as Ali’s legendary "Thrilla in Manila" against Joe Frazier and the bout between Joe Bugner and Ali in Kuala Lumpur. He argued that the location is a secondary consideration compared with the financial realities that drive athletes’ decisions. "It’s similar to what David Beckham did at the end of his career—he moved abroad because of money.
These boxers are professionals; they’re looking after their livelihoods," he said. While Warren admitted that a Wembley showdown would be a dream for British fans, he emphasized that the ultimate authority lies with the broadcaster that prefers an American setting.
"Would I like to see it at Wembley? Absolutely. Would the fans? Of course.
But the decision is out of our hands now." The potential move to the United States could also have broader implications for the sport’s calendar in 2026. An American venue would likely attract a global television audience, increase pay‑per‑view revenue, and provide a lucrative platform for both fighters to cement their legacies. It would also align with the trend of high‑profile fights being staged in major U.S. arenas, where sponsorship deals and gate receipts tend to be larger than in the UK.
If the bout does shift to the U.S., logistical considerations such as travel, time‑zone differences, and training camp adjustments will become crucial. Fury is already acclimating to Miami’s climate, while Joshua’s camp will need to coordinate a transatlantic move, secure suitable sparring partners, and manage any visa or regulatory requirements imposed by the host state. From a promotional standpoint, the involvement of Saudi interests through Sela adds another layer of complexity.
The organization has a track record of financing high‑profile events, and its partnership with Turki Al‑Alsheikh could bring additional financial muscle to the fight’s purse. However, it also raises questions about the influence of external investors on traditional boxing negotiations. In summary, while the desire to see Fury and Joshua clash at Wembley remains strong among British supporters, the prevailing momentum points toward an American showdown.
Warren’s optimism reflects confidence that contractual issues will be resolved, that the fighters will stay committed, and that the financial incentives will ultimately dictate the venue. Whether the bout lands in Miami, Las Vegas, or another U.S.
city, the fight promises to be a defining moment for heavyweight boxing in the coming year.