Frank Warren: “We now await the judge’s findings”
We are now getting more information and possible closure about the drama-filled saga trilogy between WBC heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury (30-0-1, 21ko), and former champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (42-1-1, 41ko).
THE CONTRACT DEBACLE
It was reported that after two schedule changes, both sides agreed to a December 19 showdown. However, Fox and ESPN would pull the plug due to football games that could take away pay-per-view revenue. Furthermore, both networks issued alternative dates in 2021. This prompted the “Gypsy King” to close the door on the Alabama former champion trilogy, and look to make a December 5 homecoming fight in the U.K.
Well, pump the brakes. There was more drama that would be coming down the pike.
Team Wilder later filed for a third-party mediator to view the contract in question. Moreover, they are claiming that the current pandemic is the reason for the contract expiring without an agreed-upon fight date.
Fury has recently announced the homecoming bout is canceled, and he would not fight until next year. The trilogy bout with the former Alabama knockout artist could be back on the table.
DID ESPN PULL A POWER MOVE?
British newspaper The Daily Mail is reporting the WBC champion’s promoter, Frank Warren, explained the reason behind it all.
“We did everything we could to get December 5 done, but between Top Rank and ESPN, we could not find a way to make it work without fans during the COVID pandemic.”
The biggest hint of a trilogy fight taking place was in the following statement.
“ESPN holds the TV contract rights over there to his forthcoming fights. So it’s the US next for Tyson in late February or March. Although our priority has always been the big fight with Joshua, Ideally, that would be in the UK. So we now await the judge’s findings in America with regard to Wilder. That is still a huge fight in its own right.”
ESPN may have forced the hand of the WBC champion into re-engaging with Team Wilder and was not willing to shell out a huge payday without fans, especially considering the UK is on lockdown right now. Furthermore, in the U.S, there are locations the fight could be held with fans and PPV maximizing full revenue.
3kingsboxing will continue to follow this situation and provide any further information.
By: Garrisson Bland
