Joshua-Fury Mega-Fight Targeted for November as Eddie Hearn Confirms Contract Review
Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that Anthony Joshua has received a contract for a potential mega-fight with Tyson Fury, with November 2026 being targeted for the long-awaited heavyweight showdown — though Joshua's team is still reviewing the terms and a warm-up fight in July remains the preferred route.
Fury publicly challenged Joshua after his victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov in April 2026, claiming he had already signed for the fight. However, Hearn clarified that Joshua's team only received the contract in the week prior to 14 April and is currently reviewing it.
Key Developments
Hearn emphasised that Joshua's mental well-being and competitive sharpness are paramount following a serious car accident in Nigeria in December 2025, which resulted in minor injuries to Joshua but tragically claimed the lives of his friends Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. The accident forced Joshua to scrap a planned March return to the ring.
Negotiations are ongoing with Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, for a two-fight deal that includes the Fury bout. Deontay Wilder has been suggested as a potential opponent for Joshua's July warm-up fight, though Wilder's co-manager Shelly Finkel indicated no discussions have taken place.
Background
The Joshua-Fury fight has been one of the most anticipated bouts in British boxing history, with both fighters having previously been unable to agree terms. Fury's recent victory over Makhmudov demonstrated he remains a formidable force in the heavyweight division, while Joshua's extended absence from the ring has raised questions about his readiness for such a high-profile contest.
Why It Matters
A Joshua-Fury fight would be one of the biggest sporting events in the UK in 2026, likely to be staged in Saudi Arabia given the involvement of Turki Alalshikh. The fight would generate enormous interest across the UK and Ireland, where both fighters have large fan bases.
What's Next
Joshua's current roadmap includes a training camp from May to June 2026, an interim tune-up contest in July, and then the mega-fight with Fury in November. Hearn expects Joshua's July opponent to be of a similar level to Makhmudov.
Full details available at Sky Sports.
