Deontay Wilder has thrown down the gauntlet, claiming that Anthony Joshua lacks the heart to face him in the boxing ring. However, he also expressed optimism that a showdown between the two former heavyweight world champions is closer than ever before. Both fighters are set to share the bill in Saudi Arabia this Saturday, with the possibility of a bout in 2024 looming if they both secure victories.
Wilder didn’t mince words when assessing Joshua’s willingness to face him, stating, “I don’t want to say he’s 100% afraid, but I think he’s 75%.” On the other hand, Joshua has expressed his desire to fight Wilder but is currently focused on securing the IBF title if he prevails against Otto Wallin.
The boxing world knows Wilder as one of the most prolific knockout punchers in heavyweight history. While he remains somewhat skeptical of Joshua’s intentions, he remains hopeful that they will eventually square off. Wilder wisely acknowledges the unpredictability of boxing negotiations, emphasizing that nothing is certain until it’s confirmed.
Regarding their upcoming fights in Saudi Arabia, Joshua is set to take on Sweden’s Otto Wallin, while Wilder faces former champion Joseph Parker. Both fighters are on the comeback trail after losing world titles to Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, respectively, over the past three years. Joshua, a two-time world champion, boasts an impressive record of 26 wins and three defeats. Wilder, on the other hand, held the WBC belt for five years until his loss to Fury and has recorded 42 of his 43 victories via knockout.
Interestingly, the delay in this much-anticipated clash isn’t due to financial disputes but rather a perceived lack of willingness on Joshua’s part to step into the ring with Wilder. Wilder suggests that Joshua’s handlers and promoters may also be hesitant, given his status as a cash cow for Matchroom Boxing. In Wilder’s view, intimidation might be a factor preventing this fight from happening.
Joshua, however, seems motivated by the various opportunities dangling before him. If he defeats Wallin, he could either face Wilder or contend for the IBF title against Filip Hrgovic, the mandatory challenger for Oleksandr Usyk’s belt. The latter scenario might occur if a rematch clause between Usyk and Fury is activated, potentially leading to the stripping of the IBF belt and opening the door for Joshua to face Hrgovic.
In Joshua’s own words, he’s not allowing these opportunities to distract him; instead, he’s using them as motivation. Becoming a three-time world champion is a significant goal for him, and he’s ready to defend that championship against the likes of Deontay Wilder.
As the boxing world awaits these potentially historic matchups, the allure of these “dangling carrots” serves as a driving force for both fighters, and fans can only hope that the stars align for an epic showdown between Joshua and Wilder in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Boxing Showdown
Q: When and where is the potential fight between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder taking place?
A: The fight between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder is set to take place in Saudi Arabia on a date yet to be confirmed, possibly in 2024 if both fighters secure victories in their upcoming matches.
Q: What are Deontay Wilder’s thoughts on Anthony Joshua’s willingness to fight him?
A: Deontay Wilder believes that Anthony Joshua lacks the heart to face him in the ring. He expressed his view that Joshua may be hesitant, with a hint of intimidation, but he remains hopeful that the fight will materialize.
Q: Who are the upcoming opponents for Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder?
A: Anthony Joshua is scheduled to fight Otto Wallin, while Deontay Wilder is set to take on former champion Joseph Parker in their respective upcoming matches.
Q: What’s at stake for Anthony Joshua if he defeats Otto Wallin?
A: If Anthony Joshua defeats Otto Wallin, he has two potential options on the horizon. He could either face Deontay Wilder or compete for the IBF title against Filip Hrgovic, depending on the outcome of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury rematch.
Q: Why has the Joshua vs. Wilder fight not happened yet?
A: According to Deontay Wilder, the delay in the Joshua vs. Wilder fight isn’t primarily due to financial issues but rather a perceived lack of courage or willingness on Joshua’s part to face him. Wilder also suggests that Joshua’s handlers and promoters might be hesitant to make the fight happen.
Q: What motivates Anthony Joshua despite these potential distractions?
A: Anthony Joshua appears to be motivated by the various opportunities that lie ahead. He views the championship as a significant goal and is ready to defend it, whether against Deontay Wilder or in pursuit of the IBF title.
Q: How significant would a fight between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder be in the boxing world?
A: A showdown between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder would be a highly anticipated and significant event in the boxing world, drawing immense attention from fans and enthusiasts worldwide.
More about Boxing Showdown
- Anthony Joshua vs. Deontay Wilder: Fight News, Rumors, and Updates
- Deontay Wilder’s Views on Anthony Joshua’s Willingness to Fight
- Upcoming Opponents for Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder
- What’s at Stake for Anthony Joshua After Otto Wallin Fight
- Reasons Behind the Delay in Joshua vs. Wilder Fight
- Anthony Joshua’s Motivation Amidst Potential Distractions
- Significance of a Joshua vs. Wilder Fight in Boxing
1 comment
Wilder’s got a point, it’s been a long wait, fingers crossed for a showdown!