Fury to AJ: Forget Wilder, or anybody else, let's fight next!

British heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury has publicly called out his long-time domestic rival Anthony Joshua to prioritize a fight between them next, urging him to ignore other potential bouts including one against American former champion Deontay Wilder. The call was made through media channels on February 20, 2025, as Fury seeks to finally secure a historic all-British unification clash that has eluded fans for years, believing it is the most significant fight for both their legacies and the sport. The rivalry between Fury and Joshua has been one of the most compelling narratives in boxing for nearly a decade, with negotiations for a fight collapsing on multiple occasions due to contractual disputes, mandatory obligations, and conflicting broadcast deals. Fury, the charismatic and often outspoken WBC champion, has repeatedly stated that a fight with Joshua is the only bout that truly matters in the heavyweight division. His latest comments represent a direct challenge to Joshua, the former unified champion, to bypass other lucrative options, such as a third fight with Wilder, and commit to what would be one of the biggest sporting events in British history. The potential fight carries immense financial and sporting stakes, with early estimates suggesting it could generate well over £100 million. For Joshua, the decision is complex; a fight with the dangerous Wilder offers its own prestige and a chance to avenge his previous defeat, while a bout with Fury is seen as the ultimate legacy-defining contest. The boxing world is now watching closely to see if Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, and Fury's team, led by Frank Warren, can finally bridge the commercial and logistical gaps that have prevented this showdown. Fury's public pressure is a clear tactical move to force the issue into the open and hold Joshua accountable to the fans' long-held desire.