Tyson Fury has questioned whether his long-awaited heavyweight showdown with Anthony Joshua will finally happen this year, insisting he is prepared to face another opponent if the bout falls through.
Both British heavyweights are scheduled for separate tune-up fights this week, with Fury taking on Poland’s Mariusz Wach in Thailand on Friday and Joshua facing Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
Although both camps have signed contracts for a proposed clash in November or December, the fight is yet to receive an official date or venue.
Fury remains unconvinced about the fight
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Fury dismissed questions about Joshua and suggested he has never been fully convinced the fight would happen.
“Let’s not make this about silly Mr Bodybuilder. I’m not interested in him or his mates or anybody else. I don’t give a f*** about him.”
The former world heavyweight champion said his focus is on defeating Wach before considering his next move.
“There’s five months to get another fight in before the end of year ends. And if it is your man Anthony Joshua, good. And if it’s not, then I’ll be fighting somebody else.”
Fury also expressed confidence ahead of Friday’s contest, saying he is fully fit and believes he can overcome any heavyweight currently in the division.
No plans to watch Joshua
Joshua was ringside when Fury defeated Arslanbek Makhmudov in London in April, but Fury confirmed he will not travel to Saudi Arabia to watch his rival’s fight.
“I’m going home. I’ve got about as much interest in Anthony Joshua versus ‘some Pringles’ as I have of spewing that all over the floor. None.”
When asked whether a face-off with Joshua after Saturday’s bout would reassure fans that the fight is finally on, Fury remained sceptical.
“You’ve been told for 10 years it’s happening. It hasn’t happened, has it? So don’t hold your breath. I’ve always had my doubts. But if it happens, good. If it doesn’t, also good.”
A victory for both fighters this weekend would clear the way for one of British boxing’s most anticipated heavyweight contests, although Fury’s latest comments have made the blockbuster match doubtful.
