The long-awaited showdown between British boxing titans Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua has moved significantly closer to becoming a reality, following decisive victories for both heavyweights in their respective warm-up fights last weekend. Despite the wins, a major point of contention regarding the fight's venue continues to pose a challenge to finalising the bout.
Tyson Fury was the first to enter the ring on Friday, securing a seventh-round stoppage against 46-year-old Mariusz Wach in Pattaya, Thailand. Anthony Joshua's return to action in Saudi Arabia proved more dramatic. Facing Kristian Prenga, Joshua was unexpectedly floored twice in the opening round before staging a remarkable comeback to stop his opponent in the second, keeping the mega-fight on track.
With both men now having secured victories, and contracts understood to be in place, the path to what could be the biggest fight in British boxing history appears clearer. Reports have suggested individual purses could reach around £75 million, providing substantial motivation to finalise the deal. However, the exact location and date remain subject to intense negotiation.
Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, remains adamant that a legally binding agreement dictates the fight must be held in the United Kingdom. Hearn stated, "It's done. We signed a legally binding contract about three months ago," insisting that any move away from the UK would require renegotiation. Joshua himself has made his preference for Wembley Stadium clear, stating after his win, "It's just got that history when you think of Wembley."
Conversely, New York's Madison Square Garden in November is reportedly a frontrunner for Saudi organisers, who are keen to maximise the event's appeal and lucrative television audience in America. While British fans are eager for the fight to be staged at Wembley, a UK-based event catering to the US broadcast schedule might necessitate an unusually late start, potentially in the early hours of the morning, similar to past high-profile fights.
Wembley Stadium has a 23:00 curfew, though London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Brent Council have indicated a willingness to discuss an extension for such a significant sporting event. However, sources close to the mayor noted on Friday that organisers had not yet engaged in these discussions. Cardiff's Principality Stadium has also expressed interest, but its availability is limited to specific Saturdays in late October or November due to scheduled Wales rugby internationals.