Nigerian-born former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, has reportedly signed a deal to face fellow British heavyweight, Tyson Fury, in a blockbuster showdown later this year or early 2027.
Reports indicate that the agreement for the long-anticipated bout has been concluded behind the scenes. However, the fight is not expected to take place until Joshua first returns to the ring against another British contender, Dillian Whyte, in June or July.
Although there has been no official confirmation from Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, details of the former two-time champion’s schedule were revealed by respected boxing journalist, Gareth A. Davies, who cited a credible source.
Davies stated that both Joshua, popularly known as “AJ,” and Fury, nicknamed “The Gypsy King,” have agreed to face each other before the end of the year. He added that Whyte is expected to be Joshua’s first opponent following his recovery from a car accident in Ogun State.
Joshua has been the subject of several reports since the December 29 accident, which tragically claimed the lives of two of his close friends. However, Hearn recently confirmed that the boxer resumed training last week.
The former champion is now set to intensify preparations for the anticipated all-British clash with Whyte, before turning his focus to the high-stakes encounter with Fury, which is expected to take place in London.
Speaking on talkSPORT earlier this week, Davies said: “The Fury-Joshua fight is signed — it’s done in the background. I’ve got that on good authority.
“It is expected to be broadcast live on Netflix and could take place either late this year or next year, with Joshua likely to return to the ring in June or July. It’s backed by major financial investors.”
