By FN Sports Desk
The long‑anticipated heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury is closer than ever, with multiple reports indicating both fighters are being positioned for a blockbuster clash in 2026. While no deal has been finalized, momentum is building behind what would be one of the biggest events in modern boxing.
According to ESPN, both camps are “working towards making it happen” as part of Riyadh Season, with growing confidence that the fight will finally materialize after years of stalled negotiations and near‑misses. The plan calls for Joshua and Fury to compete in separate bouts early in 2026, with the superfight targeted for later in the year—likely the second half.
Yahoo Sports reports that the matchup is being eyed for September 2026, contingent on both men winning their respective tune‑up fights earlier in the year. It would mark the first meeting between the two former heavyweight champions, who came close to fighting in 2021 before the deal collapsed.
Fury, who has retired and unretired multiple times, remains the betting favorite. William Hill lists the “Gypsy King” at 4/7, with Joshua at 6/4, reflecting Fury’s size, ring IQ, and track record in high‑pressure fights. A draw sits at 14/1, and all bets are refunded if the fight does not occur in 2026.
Joshua, meanwhile, is rebuilding after a turbulent stretch that included a 2024 loss to Daniel Dubois. Sporting News notes that his team is already looking beyond his upcoming bout with Jake Paul, signaling confidence that Joshua remains a major player in the division heading into 2026.
If the fight is finalized, it would be the most significant all‑British heavyweight clash in decades—pitting Fury’s awkward, tactical brilliance against Joshua’s explosive power and athleticism. For now, fans will have to wait for both men to clear their early‑year assignments before the sport can finally deliver the matchup it has teased for nearly half a decade.
