Anthony Joshua has set his sights on a blockbuster showdown with Tyson Fury for his ring return, launching a scathing attack on his heavyweight rival while expressing his desire to get back into action.
The former two-time world champion took to Instagram to voice his frustration with Fury, calling The Gypsy King a ‘dippy mate’ whilst praising Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley for their willingness to fight each other rather than wait around for opportunities.
Joshua posted a message on his Instagram story on Tuesday in which he said he was proud of Parker for being a competitor and not waiting around for unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. He also gave respect to Wardley, but used the opportunity to take shots at Fury.
The 35-year-old finished his message by saying he will hopefully be back in the ring ‘sooner than later to punch Fury repeatedly and avoid his flicker jab with ease.’
Joshua’s comments come as he continues to seek his next opponent following his knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley last September. The former champion has been out of action for almost a year after rejecting an immediate rematch to undergo elbow surgery.
His absence from competition has seen the IBF drop him from their heavyweight rankings, where he had previously been sixth. Usyk remains champion, with Nigeria’s Efe Ajagba and Moses Itauma both climbing the ladder in the latest rankings.
Joshua had been linked with a bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul early next year, but the American has since announced he will instead face Gervonta Davis in an exhibition in November, leaving Joshua without a confirmed opponent.
“Any fight he has next is likely to be a warm-up for that roll-the-dice fight. We hope, in an ideal world, that’s Tyson Fury. If not, it will be against one of the top five heavyweights,” Hearn said.
The promoter admitted there is no rush for Joshua’s return, despite his lengthy absence from the ring.
“I don’t think there’s any value in us saying it will be in December,” Hearn said.
“He’s been travelling about a bit, but he’s back in training following an elbow operation. These big fights take time, and every AJ event is massive.”
Talks have taken place over a potential fight in Ghana, with Hearn saying the country could host Joshua’s return.
“There has been an offer to do a fight there and I think it would be incredible for AJ to fight in Africa,” he added.
However, Fury appears to be playing hard to get whilst waiting for a trilogy fight with Usyk. The self-proclaimed Gypsy King is technically “retired” and just waiting for the right opportunity, which seemingly means Usyk, Joshua or no one else.
The long-awaited clash between Joshua and Fury has been discussed for years but has never materialised, with both fighters pursuing different paths. Joshua’s latest comments indicate he is ready to finally settle their rivalry in the ring.
