Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury: What to Know About the Proposed Battle of Britain Heavyweight Bout

Joshua and Fury: A Decade of Anticipation

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have been linked as potential opponents for nearly ten years. Both are British heavyweights and two-time world champions, prominent figures in modern British sport. At ages 36 and 37 respectively, both fighters have faced setbacks, including two losses each to Oleksandr Usyk. They seem to be nearing the later stages of their careers.

The heavyweight division is shifting. Usyk has given up his remaining belts, leaving Daniel Dubois (WBO), Agit Kabayel (WBC), and Murat Gassiev (WBA) holding the main titles, while the IBF belt remains open. As these changes unfold, fans expect Joshua and Fury to face one another rather than chase other titles.

Upcoming Fights This Week

Neither fighter meets this week, though both return to the ring. Fury battles veteran contender Mariusz Wach in Thailand on July 24, aiming for 10 rounds. Meanwhile, Joshua headlines a fight in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, against Kristian Prenga, an Albanian known for knockouts but with a modest record.

This fight marks Joshua’s first since a tragic car accident last December that claimed members of his team. Joshua was returning from a vacation in Nigeria after defeating Jake Paul in Miami.

Fury recently ended a brief retirement with a decisive win over Arslanbek Makhmudov at Wembley in April and immediately called out Joshua.

When Will Joshua and Fury Meet?

Assuming both win their upcoming fights, the two are scheduled to clash on December 11 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. Contracts have been signed with Saudi boxing figure Turki Alalshikh to finalize the bout.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, insisted the fight must occur in the UK. Although Alalshikh, involved with UFC's Dana White and Zuffa Boxing, initially hinted at a US venue, the fight will take place in Wales.

Fury, currently the WBC’s top challenger to Kabayel, has questioned Joshua’s willingness to face him directly in media settings, suggesting Joshua avoids confrontations. Yet, they managed to agree on the date despite earlier tensions.

Have Joshua and Fury Ever Fought Before?

They have never faced off professionally. A famous 2010 sparring session between them has fueled speculation over the years. Fury recalled it in a BBC London interview, praising Joshua’s skill and saying Joshua dominated the three-round session.

“If I’d have had a bit of a weak chin, I’d have been knocked out for a month,” Fury said. “He’s very, very good and he’s only young, 20. Watch out for that name Anthony Joshua - he is one prospect for the future.”

Later, Fury claimed Joshua was pulled out after three rounds. Joshua’s amateur coach Sean Murphy confirmed Fury struggled during the spar, noting Joshua had the upper hand by the third round. Fury asked for a fourth, but Murphy stopped the session.

Recently, Joshua referenced the spar when trading words with Fury after his win over Makhmudov: “I’ve never had no problem getting in a ring with you... I punched you up when we were kids and, after watching you tonight, I'll punch you up again.”