Anthony Joshua Still Unsigned as Tyson Fury Grows Frustrated Over Delayed Mega Fight
The long‑running wait for a heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury continues, despite recent claims that the bout is close to being finalised.
According to a BBC report, Fury’s team has already signed the contract, while Joshua has yet to do the same. This has renewed doubts about whether the all‑British clash will ever materialise after years of stalled negotiations and public call‑outs.
Tension resurfaced after Fury stopped Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Joshua was seated ringside as Fury climbed onto the ropes and gestured for him to enter the ring. Joshua remained in his seat.
Later, backstage, Fury voiced his irritation: “He didn’t want the smoke. He came ringside to make the fight. If it were me, I’d have jumped in the ring. Ten years in the making and still there’s uncertainty if it’s going to happen next.” He also hinted that he could walk away from boxing if the Joshua fight collapses again.
Joshua’s reluctance appears tied to his recent inactivity and personal circumstances. The former world champion has fought only once in the last 18 months, defeating Jake Paul in six rounds in December. That same month he was involved in a car accident that claimed the lives of two close friends.
A proposed tune‑up bout against Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on July 25 is being viewed as an opportunity for Joshua to sharpen up before stepping into a high‑pressure encounter with Fury.
Fury, however, brushed aside the need for interim fights: “We’ve all had problems, that’s life. Taking interim fights, you can get chinned by anyone.”
About the Author
