FURY CASTS DOUBT ON JOSHUA FIGHT OVER VENUE AND PAY DISPUTES

Tyson Fury has stated that his scheduled heavyweight bout against Anthony Joshua may not proceed, citing disagreements over the fight's location and financial terms. Fury said on Instagram that Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn is demanding additional money and insisting the fight take place in the United Kingdom, rather than accepting alternative venues. Fury stated he is willing to fight anywhere and remains ready to compete in November, adding that he would pursue other opponents if Joshua declines to proceed. Both fighters had recently won bouts, with Fury defeating Mariusz Wach and Joshua knocking out Kristian Prenga.

The pair signed separate contracts with Saudi Arabian-owned organiser Sela to stage their fight later this year. Hearn has stated that Joshua's original contract includes a clause guaranteeing the bout would be held in the UK, but Sela prefers Madison Square Garden in New York. Hearn said he and Joshua are open to fighting in America to secure a larger broadcast audience, including through Netflix, but only if specific conditions are met. Hearn indicated that Joshua requires an increased payment to account for tax implications of fighting in the United States, and that negotiations continue over travel, accreditation and media arrangements. Hearn stated that he and Joshua signed their contract in good faith and expect it to be honoured.

The dispute has been further complicated by potential involvement from Dana White, president of UFC and head of Zuffa Boxing, which is jointly owned by Sela and TKO Group Holdings. Hearn and White have reportedly disagreed over the fight's arrangements. Fury indicated that White would be welcome on his side of negotiations if he wished to facilitate the bout proceeding. No date for resolution of the outstanding disputes has been announced.