The highly anticipated bout between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury has hit a speed bump – venue talks have been halted ahead of the two heavyweights' return to action this weekend. Matchroom president Barry Hearn confirmed that negotiations are on ice, leaving fans eagerly awaiting news on where the epic showdown will go down.
Joshua is said to be keen for an all-British affair at Wembley Stadium, but it's Saudi promoter Turki Alalshikh who holds the purse strings – and the ultimate say in the matter. No immediate announcement is expected, with Hearn stating that focus will remain on the fighters' upcoming bouts before talks can resume.
Alas, it seems that financial backing from Turki Alalshikh could be the decisive factor, with a signed contract for the UK still in place – but also a substantial injection of cash that might sway opinions. Joshua's preference for a home turf showdown remains clear, and Hearn hopes this will carry some weight.
Fury, aged 37, is set to face Mariusz Wach in Thailand on Friday, while Joshua, 36, makes his long-awaited return against Kristian Prenga in Jeddah the following day. Both fighters have a mountain to climb ahead of their weekend tests – but when they emerge victorious, the talk will turn once more to the tantalising prospect of facing each other.
The UK's got its eye on Wembley, while US venues such as Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles have also been mooted. But for now, any concrete plans are on hold – until Joshua and Fury can prove themselves in their respective comeback fights at least.