Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury: Contract Signed! But Will AJ Take a Warm-Up Fight First? (2026)

The boxing world is abuzz with the potential showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, a highly anticipated battle that has been in the works for some time. However, the path to this mega fight is not as straightforward as one might think.

The Contract and the Warm-up Bout

Promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that Joshua has received the contract for the Fury fight, but there's a twist. Joshua, who has been dealing with personal tragedy after a car accident in Nigeria, may opt for a warm-up fight in July before facing Fury in November. This strategy is not uncommon, as fighters often use these tune-up bouts to regain their rhythm and sharpness after a hiatus.

Fury's Challenge and Joshua's Response

Tyson Fury, fresh off a victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov, has issued a challenge to Joshua, urging him to forget about other potential opponents and focus on their long-awaited clash. However, Joshua has not committed to the fight, leaving room for speculation about his next move.

The July Bout: A Wilder Possibility

There are rumors that Joshua's July fight could be against Deontay Wilder, a former champion who has expressed interest in a rematch. Hearn confirms that they are open to this option, suggesting a back-to-back scenario with Wilder and Fury. This move, while seemingly risky, could provide Joshua with the necessary preparation for the high-stakes Fury fight.

A Strategic Delay

The original plan was for Joshua to fight in March and then take on Fury in August. However, given the circumstances, this timeline has been pushed back. July and November are now the proposed dates, allowing Joshua more time to recover and prepare.

The Bigger Picture

What makes this situation particularly fascinating is the strategic dance between these heavyweight champions. Fury's challenge

Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury: Contract Signed! But Will AJ Take a Warm-Up Fight First? (2026)
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