In a significant development within the boxing world, Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury are reportedly engaged in discussions regarding a potential fight this year, a matchup that many believe is critical for both fighters’ legacies.
According to documents obtained from reliable sources, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn has received a contract proposal for the bout, which could take place as early as 2026. This comes on the heels of Joshua’s plans to schedule a warm-up fight in the coming months—potentially against Arslanbek Makhmudov—before stepping into the ring with Fury.
Fury’s return to boxing after a year-long hiatus, during which he was notably absent from competitive bouts, adds another layer of intrigue to this situation. His last fight resulted in a decision victory against Makhmudov, underscoring his readiness to reclaim his status within the heavyweight division.
Notably, David Haye has voiced strong support for this proposed matchup, stating that it represents “the biggest fight they could both possibly have,” emphasizing the necessity for both athletes to seize the opportunity for their respective legacies.
However, not all reactions have been positive. Dillian Whyte publicly criticized Joshua for not accepting Fury’s challenge sooner, suggesting that such hesitance undermines his standing in the sport. He remarked that Joshua should have accepted the fight without hesitation—”Just take the fight and shut up,” he stated.
Moreover, it is worth noting that both fighters are considered to be past their prime years; Haye mentioned that they did not face each other during their peak fighting days but could still deliver an exciting bout at this stage of their careers.
Joshua’s last encounter was against Jake Paul in December 2025, where he faced defeat against Daniel Dubois in September of the same year. These recent losses have likely contributed to his cautious approach towards future fights.
As discussions continue between camps, Makhmudov’s height—standing at nearly 6’6”—positions him as a formidable opponent for Joshua’s warm-up bout; however, he remains three inches shorter than Fury, who is reported to be 6’9”.
The timeline remains uncertain; sources indicate that Joshua aims to arrange his warm-up fight within three months before potentially facing Fury later in 2026. Details remain unconfirmed.
This evolving narrative around Joshua and Fury not only highlights their individual challenges but also reflects broader trends within heavyweight boxing—where legacy and timing play critical roles.