Eddie Hearn Denies Reports of Signed Joshua vs Fury Fight Agreement
Eddie Hearn has firmly denied recent reports suggesting that a blockbuster all-British heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury has been agreed upon. This comes after boxing journalist Gareth A Davies claimed the fight was "signed" and set to take place on Netflix, but Hearn insists there is no truth to these assertions.
Background of the Rumours
Stunning reports emerged recently that Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury had once again agreed to face each other in the ring, reigniting hopes for a long-awaited clash. These claims were made by Gareth A Davies on talkSPORT, where he revealed that the fight is "signed" and agreed, with plans for it to occur either late this year or next year, broadcast live on Netflix.
Hearn's Official Statement
However, Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn was quick to pour cold water over these reports. In an interview with The Stomping Ground, he stated, "There is absolutely nothing signed with Anthony Joshua to fight Tyson Fury next. There is nothing agreed." He acknowledged that negotiations had been underway before Joshua's tragic car crash in Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two close friends and put plans on hold.
Impact of Joshua's Accident
The car crash in Nigeria, which involved Anthony Joshua, resulted in the deaths of his friends Sina Ghami and Lateef 'Latz' Ayodele. This near-death experience has delayed any potential fight arrangements, with Joshua still recovering from the mental scars. Hearn explained that deep conversations about a fight sequence, including bouts with Jake Paul and in Saudi Arabia, were ongoing prior to the accident but have since stalled.
Current Status and Future Prospects
Anthony Joshua is now back in training, slowly ramping up preparations for a return to action later this summer. Names like Dillian Whyte have been floated as potential opponents for his comeback. If Joshua emerges unscathed, a fight with Tyson Fury could be revisited. Meanwhile, Fury is set to make his boxing comeback next month against Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 11, also live on Netflix.
Conclusion
While fans eagerly anticipate a showdown between these heavyweight icons, Eddie Hearn's denial confirms that no agreement is in place. The focus remains on Joshua's recovery and Fury's upcoming bout, with future negotiations dependent on various factors, including Joshua's performance in his return fight.
