In the ever-shifting sands of heavyweight boxing, it looks like Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua might finally be sharing the spotlight, albeit not in the ring against each other. They’re reportedly negotiating to fight on a joint card in Saudi Arabia, slated for the 23rd of December.
The boxing world has watched with bated breath as past attempts to pit Wilder against Joshua have crumbled, but this time there’s a renewed sense of hope. Wilder’s camp is optimistic about sealing the deal, especially since the originally planned Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk headliner fell through. Last month’s Fury-Ngannou bout threw a spanner in the works, leading to this unexpected opportunity.
The buzz is that we’re tantalizingly close to a confirmation, with Joshua and Wilder’s participation almost a done deal. Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions is already branding the date as a landmark moment in the boxing calendar.
Turki Alalshikh of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority is at the helm of these negotiations, working closely with both camps. Joshua, 34, has long been a fixture under Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn’s guidance, while Wilder, the American powerhouse, has been a staple in the Premier Boxing Champions circle, advised by Al Haymon and managed by Shelly Finkel.
The plan seems to be for Joshua and Wilder to take on different contenders, setting the stage for a potential face-off in 2024. However, don’t hold your breath for a Joshua-Wilder-Usyk-Fury super card just yet.
Meanwhile, Fury, the WBC champion, and Usyk, the holder of the IBF, WBO, and WBA titles, are gearing up for a colossal undisputed heavyweight clash, likely in February in Saudi Arabia.
Earlier this year, Joshua and the 38-year-old Wilder had their eyes set on a Saudi showdown under the Skills Challenge banner, but those talks hit a dead end. Now, Alalshikh’s team is emerging as the new driving force in Saudi boxing.
Both Joshua and Wilder are on a mission to reclaim past glory after losing their world titles to Usyk and Fury. With Fury still undefeated in 35 fights and Usyk boasting an unblemished record in 21 bouts, the heavyweight scene is as unpredictable as ever. This December might just set the stage for the next chapter in this high-stakes boxing saga.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Joshua-Wilder Saudi Fight
Are Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua fighting each other in Saudi Arabia?
No, they are not fighting each other. They are in talks to fight on the same card in Saudi Arabia on December 23, each against different opponents.
Why is the fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk not happening as planned?
The fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk was set to headline the event, but it was derailed due to Fury’s difficult encounter with Francis Ngannou last month.
Who is leading the discussions for the potential fights in Saudi Arabia?
Turki Alalshikh of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority is leading the discussions with Joshua and Wilder, alongside Queensberry Promotions.
What is the significance of the potential fight date on December 23?
Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions has stated that December 23 could be a “historic” night for boxing, with high hopes for finalizing the deal for Joshua and Wilder to fight separate opponents.
What are the future fight prospects for Joshua and Wilder?
The deal for the December event could pave the way for a potential fight between Joshua and Wilder in 2024. However, a joint card featuring Joshua-Wilder and Usyk-Fury is currently seen as unlikely.
More about Joshua-Wilder Saudi Fight
- Wilder and Joshua’s Negotiations
- Tyson Fury’s Recent Fight Impact
- Saudi Arabia’s Role in Boxing
- Queensberry Promotions on December Event
- Wilder and Joshua’s Comeback Trail
- Future of Heavyweight Boxing in 2024
6 comments
Tyson Fury and Usyk, now that’s the real deal. This Dec 23 card is just a warm-up, folks.
didn’t Fury just fight Ngannou? Seems like a quick turnaround for another big fight…
Joshua vs Wilder in 2024, now that’s a fight I’d pay to see. Hope it happens.
saudi’s really pulling all the stops in boxing these days, they’re becoming a major player.
wow, Joshua and Wilder finally on the same card? thats huge, hope it really happens this time!
historic night for boxing? lets not get ahead of ourselves Frank Warren, still gotta see if they sign the dotted line.