Anthony Joshua Says He Would Fight Tyson Fury Behind Closed Doors

Anthony Joshua would be up for fighting Tyson Fury behind closed doors if need be.

A huge heavyweight unification bout between the two Brits has been mooted, with Joshua recently issuing a fresh call-out to the WBC champion.

But the coronavirus outbreak has caused a major disruption to any plans and likely pushed the bout even further, particularly with both fighters having mandatory challengers and rematches respectively.

Because of the current climate, there's a chance that one of the biggest fights in heavyweight boxing happens in front of absolutely nobody.

And while Joshua says it would be difficult to fight without a crowd to entertain, he would be willing to fight Fury no matter the circumstances.

Image: PA

Speaking to DAZN, Joshua said: "If Eddie Hearn said he managed to secure the Tyson Fury fight, but it is behind closed doors, I would take it.

"If I don't take it now then I don't think Tyson Fury will be around by the time this all comes around again, when big hall shows are available. I have to take the opportunity while they're there."

"We have two current heavyweight champions in Great Britain right now. Wilder, it would be good if he stepped aside, Pulev, it would be good if he stepped aside and we got this fight on as it is one that the world is screaming for."

Lockdown has meant Joshua hasn't quite been able to train as normal, with no gym or swimming pool, but he's still been out running, cycling and shadow-boxing.

Image: PA

And he says his preparation for a future fight with Fury hasn't been affected in the slightest.

"It is such a shame that I am quarantine right now as it has put a halt to greatness," Joshua added.

"But this is part of history and I am working towards beating Tyson Fury.

"I am looking at Tyson Fury like I am going to walk through him as well. I had my issue last year [losing to Ruiz], I got through it and I want to correct it. People don't know what that does for a fighter mentally when he loses in front of the world and what it takes to come back. Having this time to reflect has been a blessing in disguise."

Topics: Tyson Fury, Boxing News, Anthony Joshua, Boxing

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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