Robert McCracken, the man who guided Anthony Joshua from his amateur days to the pinnacle of the heavyweight division, has weighed in on the ongoing saga surrounding a potential clash with Tyson Fury. While promoters on both sides have been making public statements—Frank Warren claiming that terms have been settled and they are simply "waiting for AJ," and Eddie Hearn announcing that negotiations are back on track for a Wembley showdown—McCracken insists that the ultimate decision belongs solely to the two fighters. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, the former trainer, who once helped Joshua capture a unified world title, reminded listeners that the business of boxing is ultimately about the athletes themselves. "I spent my own career in the ring, and looking back you always wonder about the choices you made—what you should have done and what you perhaps shouldn’t have," McCracken said.
"Most of the time things work out as they should, but at the end of the day it’s up to the fighters to decide if they want to step into the ring with each other and see who comes out on top." He was emphatic that external opinions have no bearing on the matter. "I don’t think it’s anyone else’s business whether they fight or not. Both men have proved they belong at the top of the sport," he added. "The fact that everyone keeps talking about it is actually a good thing for boxing.
It keeps the sport in the headlines and draws new fans, which is exactly what we need." Fury, for his part, has expressed frustration with what he perceives as sluggish negotiations, even taking to social media to label Joshua a "coward" for allegedly dragging his feet. McCracken, however, believes the Olympic gold‑medallist and former world champion would welcome the chance to settle the rivalry once and for all. "From my experience, Anthony was always happy to fight anyone," McCracken explained.
"The only thing that mattered was how the fight was packaged and what made the most sense for his career at that moment. That’s how fighters think these days." Although McCracken has not been directly involved with Joshua’s camp for some time, he remains optimistic that the bout will materialise. "It looks like it’s going to happen. I hope it does, because then everyone can enjoy a great fight," he said.
Both men have had contrasting results in their recent warm‑up bouts. Fury delivered a dominant stoppage against Mariusz Wach, while Joshua endured a challenging night, being knocked down twice before eventually stopping Kristian Prenga. McCracken suggested that the criticism Joshua faced after that performance could serve as extra motivation.
"He didn’t put on a spectacular display, but he still secured the knockout, and that’s what counts. He’ll be eager to prove the doubters wrong," McCracken noted.
He also acknowledged Fury’s current form, describing the British heavyweight as the favorite based on recent performances. "Tyson is looking the strongest right now, given his recent results and overall shape.
It’s fascinating to consider how long it’s taken to get this fight on the table," McCracken observed. The interview took place ahead of a charitable event called "A Night of Solidarity," scheduled for November 13. The evening will feature Olympic‑style boxing matches designed to showcase the unifying power of sport while raising money for firefighter charities, youth sports organisations, and community groups in North Kensington.
The event is a tribute to the local community’s response after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, when boxing clubs and sports organisations rallied to provide safe spaces and support for those affected. The London Fire Brigade Boxing Club (LFB) has been instrumental in using sport as a tool for community cohesion, offering structure and purpose to young people across the capital. By pairing LFB athletes with boxers from North Kensington in a series of 12 bouts, the night aims to celebrate the collaborative spirit that emerged in the wake of the disaster.
Proceeds will benefit local sports charities, the Firefighters' Charity, and other community initiatives. In summary, while promoters and media continue to speculate, McCracken’s message is clear: the decision to fight rests with Joshua and Fury alone. Their personal desire, preparation, and mutual respect will ultimately determine whether the long‑awaited showdown becomes a reality.
Meanwhile, the broader boxing community can look forward to a night of solidarity that underscores how sport can bring people together, heal wounds, and generate positive change beyond the ropes.