Anthony Joshua has officially signed a deal to fight long-time rival Tyson Fury, according to promoter Eddie Hearn, bringing one of boxing’s most anticipated heavyweight clashes closer than ever.
After years of negotiations, failed discussions and repeated setbacks, the all-British showdown between two of the sport’s biggest names now appears firmly on course.
Hearn confirmed the breakthrough on social media, declaring the fight “signed, sealed and delivered.”
Before the blockbuster showdown can happen, Joshua is scheduled to return to the ring on July 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he will face Kristian Prenga.
The bout will mark Joshua’s first fight since surviving a fatal car crash in Nigeria in December, an incident that left him injured and tragically claimed the lives of two members of his team.
“It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back into the ring,” Joshua said.
Joshua and Fury have dominated British heavyweight boxing for over a decade, collecting world titles, global audiences and massive commercial success.
Yet despite multiple attempts to make the fight happen, the two former heavyweight champions have never shared the ring.
Fury recently reignited tensions after defeating Arslanbek Makhmudov, publicly calling out Joshua immediately after the fight.
Team Fury later claimed they had already signed their side of the agreement and were waiting for Joshua’s approval.
Joshua’s comeback against Prenga is widely viewed as a calculated return designed to rebuild rhythm and confidence before facing Fury.
The Albanian carries an intimidating record of 20 wins ; all by stoppage with only one defeat.
Still, many observers see the matchup as a manageable test for Joshua after a turbulent period both inside and outside the ring.
His recent résumé includes a defeat to Daniel Dubois and a controversial bout against Francis Ngannou, while his last victory over an established top-level boxer came against Otto Wallin in 2023.
November date could be next
While no official date or venue has been announced for Joshua vs Fury, speculation is already intensifying.
Hearn has previously suggested the fight could take place in November and potentially be streamed globally on Netflix.
Possible venues in England include Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, though logistical questions remain over staging such a major outdoor event late in the year.
For years, Joshua vs Fury has been the fight British boxing fans demanded but never received.
Now, provided Joshua safely navigates his return in Riyadh, the heavyweight division may finally get its defining modern-era showdown.
