British boxing fans have spent years waiting for a massive showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. Now, with Fury stepping away from the sport following his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, and Joshua recovering from a crushing knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, insiders like Gareth A. Davies are wondering whether either man will ever recapture heavyweight gold.
Davies believes neither Fury nor Joshua has a clear path back to the summit of the division - especially with talents like Daniel Dubois and Moses Itauma knocking on the door.
Yet of the two, “AJ” may still have a glimmer of hope. Despite losing to Dubois in September, Joshua’s power and resolve could carry him toward one last title push if he makes the right moves. The problem? He hasn’t taken a direct rematch with Dubois, sparking speculation that he’s waiting to see if Fury emerges from retirement. But inactivity can be risky, and letting too much time pass might close off a chance to avenge the Dubois setback. Promoter Eddie Hearn mentioned injuries as part of the delay, but we are left wondering if Joshua is being overly cautious - or simply losing his hunger.
Watch Joshua vs. Dubois highlights: Watch
From a broader perspective, the heavyweight guard is shifting. Young guns like Dubois and Itauma are looking to upend the old guard, while Joseph Parker still seeks another opportunity. As for Fury, his love-hate relationship with retirement continues, leading many to think it’s just a matter of time before he’s tempted back by a lucrative payday. Still, if he truly walks away, the dream of a Fury vs. Joshua mega-fight might remain forever unfulfilled.
In the end, Gareth A. Davies sums it up best: “It would be a travesty if the two men don’t meet.” For fans, the idea of Fury and Joshua never squaring off would be a stain on this era - a “what if” scenario that hangs over both men’s legacies.
Tyson Fury’s career is accessible here.
Image Credit: Sky Sports