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The stage is set for an epic clash in the world of heavyweight boxing as the countdown begins for the highly anticipated showdown between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, rescheduled for May 18.
Fury, accompanied by promoter Frank Warren, addressed the media at Mazuma Stadium in Morecambe, U.K., during a press conference on Wednesday. With just five weeks remaining until his collision with Usyk, another storm of media speculation has erupted surrounding a long-discussed bout with domestic rival and two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua.
The Fury-Joshua matchup was initially slated for 2022, but contractual complications led Fury to conclude a trilogy with Deontay Wilder, while Joshua faced – and succumbed to – Usyk. Since then, verbal jabs have been exchanged between the camps, fueling anticipation for a potential showdown.
However, Fury downplayed the notion of animosity between himself and Joshua, stating,
"What about? Being called a dosser or a sausage? What's really been said? Has he ever said anything to me that's personal – or me to him? I don't think so."
In contrast, Joshua has rebounded impressively with victories over Otto Wallin and Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia, solidifying his position as the next-best heavyweight after the two champions. With Wilder's defeat to Joseph Parker, Joshua's name is now linked with the winner of Fury-Usyk, with discussions reportedly underway for a future bout at Wembley Stadium.
However, Fury remains adamant that Joshua must wait his turn, asserting, "
Joshua is an old dosser and he's got to wait his turn because he had his chance with Usyk, and he lost fair and square."
Acknowledging the significance of his impending bout with Usyk, Fury emphasized the need to focus on the task at hand, highlighting Usyk's formidable skills and the stakes involved.