Plans for a long-anticipated heavyweight clash between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are gathering momentum, with both camps now aligned on staging interim bouts before a possible superfight later this year.
Representatives for Fury confirmed that the former world champion is likely to take part in a summer “tune-up” fight following his recent comeback victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov earlier in April. His team believes an additional bout will help sharpen his form after time away from the ring.
Joshua’s camp is also targeting a return in July, according to promoter Eddie Hearn, who indicated that both fighters are keen to enter the proposed blockbuster contest in peak condition. The move is said to follow advice from Oleksandr Usyk, who encouraged Joshua to rebuild momentum after a lengthy absence from competition.
If both fighters come through their respective summer bouts unscathed, negotiations point to a potential meeting between Fury and Joshua toward the end of 2026, with November emerging as the most likely window.
Discussions are ongoing regarding the venue, with Wembley Stadium considered a preferred location, although Saudi Arabia remains a strong contender to host the fight, backed by senior sports officials including Turki Alalshikh.
Promoters describe the proposed clash as one of the biggest in British boxing history, with both fighters seeking to reinforce their legacies. Fury is aiming to reassert his dominance in the heavyweight division, while Joshua is looking to strengthen his standing following recent victories.
Negotiations are said to be at an advanced stage, though final agreements are expected to depend on the outcome of the planned July bouts.