Fury backs Joshua bout as boxing’s biggest fight

Tyson Fury has doubled down to say that a fight with Anthony Joshua remains the biggest bout in boxing, as he prepares for his April 11 return against Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the contest, Fury said he would prioritise a clash with Joshua over any world title opportunity. He described the all-British matchup as the leading draw in the sport, despite both fighters moving through different phases of their careers.

“The biggest fight for me in world boxing and the biggest fight in the world of boxing is me versus AJ. Even today, even after all these years, it’s still the biggest fight in boxing, it’s still the biggest fight,” the former WBC champion said. 

Fury and Joshua were close to meeting in 2021 after a purse bid secured plans for a four-belt unification bout.

The fight was later cancelled when Deontay Wilder enforced a trilogy rematch with Fury, delaying talks and leaving the matchup unresolved.

Both heavyweights enter 2026 with established records. Fury holds a 34-2-1 record with 24 knockouts, while Joshua has faced recent setbacks, including a stoppage loss to Daniel Dubois. 

Fury’s own momentum was affected by consecutive defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in 2024, both coming by decision. 

Joshua, meanwhile, stepped away from competition before returning to training as he rebuilds towards another title run.

For now, Fury’s focus is on his upcoming bout with Makhmudov, which could impact his next move in the division. The Briton has indicated that a victory would put him in a position to pursue Joshua next.

Promoter Eddie Hearn has previously described the matchup as one of the most significant in modern boxing, noting its long-standing appeal among fans.

The potential bout continues to attract interest due to the fighters’ shared history and status as former champions within the heavyweight division. Venues in the United Kingdom and the Middle East have both been linked to hosting the contest.

With both fighters in the later stages of their careers, a meeting between Fury and Joshua would likely settle their standing within their era, although it may not be as significant as it would have been a few years ago.