Eddie Hearn and Anthony Joshua to Meet and Plan Their Next Move
It has been largely assumed that Anthony “AJ” Joshua’s (24-2, 22 KOs) next fight would be a rematch against the current unified champion Oleksandr Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) sometime this Spring. However, rumors are starting to surface that “AJ” is seriously contemplating negotiating a step-aside fee for Usyk to face WBC champ Tyson Fury (31-0-1, 22 KOs).
On January 24, Joshua released a video where he vehemently denied the rumors, referring to it as media-driven “bullshit”. But, the speculation continues.
During an interview with Sky Sports, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn said he plans on talking with the former champ and his management to discuss the matter.
“I’m meeting with AJ and 258 Management on Tuesday (January 24) to go through plans for his next fight. We have a number of proposals and options to discuss. The goal remains the same of course – to re-capture the world heavyweight crown.”
Eddie Hearn – Matchroom Boxing Chairman
Sky also spoke to Usyk’s promoter, Alexander Krassyuk. He said, while the rematch with Joshua remains on the table, negotiations for a fight with Fury have been taking place since late last year.
TEAM USYK KEEPING OPTIONS OPEN
“We are in talks regarding the Fury fight since November (2021). And though AJ gave his consent, we still have not reached the final point in negotiations. And unless we get it, “AJ” rematch remains the basic option for us.”
Alexander Krassyuk – Promoter for Oleksandr Usyk
In September of 2021, Usyk upset Joshua to capture the titles. The new champ has said that his eventual goal is to become the undisputed heavyweight champ. With Fury yet to come to terms with a match with WBC mandatory heavyweight contender Dillian Whyte, it has opened the window for a possible fight between Usyk and Fury.
MAKE UP YOUR MIND
So, as it stands now, fans and pundits are left in a bit of confusion. If Joshua is saying all of this is rubbish, why is he now having a meeting with Hearn? These latest developments do nothing to give some finality. At this point, this has become the heavyweight version of As the World Turns. Stay tuned to 3Kings Boxing for continued updates on this developing story.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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