The boxing world is abuzz with renewed speculation surrounding a potential clash between heavyweight titans Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder. A fight that was once envisioned as a unification bout for all the marbles during their respective championship reigns in 2018-2019, failed to materialize amidst a tangle of negotiations and competing interests. Now, years later, the embers of that rivalry have been rekindled, fueled by Matchroom Boxing’s public expression of interest in finally staging this long-anticipated showdown.
Matchroom CEO Frank Smith has confirmed that a Joshua-Wilder bout remains firmly in their crosshairs, contingent upon Wilder successfully navigating his upcoming comeback fight. The narrative, Smith argues, is still potent. The fight still holds significant public appeal, despite the passage of time and the shifting landscape of the heavyweight division. The boxing world, it seems, remains captivated by the prospect of these two powerful punchers trading blows in a high-stakes encounter. This enduring interest underlines the enduring appeal of a clash between two of the biggest names in the sport, even if their paths to this point have diverged significantly.
Deontay Wilder, now 39, is set to face Tyrrell Herndon on June 27th in Kansas, a crucial step in his attempted resurgence after a series of setbacks. Having tasted defeat in four of his last five bouts, including losses to Tyson Fury, Joseph Parker, and most recently Zhilei Zhang, Wilder’s aura of invincibility has undoubtedly diminished. However, the former WBC champion, known for his devastating knockout power, retains a significant fan base and carries the potential to reignite his career with a resounding victory. A win against Herndon could pave the way for a lucrative showdown with Joshua, offering a chance for redemption and a return to the pinnacle of the heavyweight division.
Anthony Joshua, meanwhile, is on the comeback trail himself, recovering from elbow surgery and aiming for an autumn return to the ring. While discussions have reportedly taken place with Riyadh Season organizers regarding a potential two-fight deal, the identity of his next opponent remains shrouded in uncertainty. Names like Dillian Whyte and Jared Anderson have been floated, though Whyte’s apparent move towards a separate August bout with Moses Itauma diminishes the likelihood of a Joshua-Whyte rematch in the immediate future. This shift in circumstances further strengthens the possibility of a Wilder-Joshua encounter taking center stage.
Frank Smith’s recent statements suggest a growing momentum behind the Wilder fight. He acknowledges that Whyte is no longer the frontrunner for Joshua’s next opponent, hinting that the Wilder clash offers a more compelling narrative, both commercially and from a sporting perspective. This sentiment reflects the enduring intrigue surrounding a potential Joshua-Wilder match-up, a fight that still captures the imagination of boxing fans worldwide. The potential for fireworks, given both fighters’ knockout power, and the historical context of their near-miss encounter years ago, makes it a highly marketable and potentially explosive event. The commercial viability of the fight, coupled with the sporting significance of pitting two former champions against each other, creates a compelling case for making this fight a reality.
The final decision, however, hinges on Joshua’s full recovery. Smith emphasizes the importance of prioritizing Joshua’s health and ensuring he returns to peak physical condition before committing to any fight. This cautious approach underscores the magnitude of the decision facing Joshua and his team. Choosing the right opponent at this crucial juncture in his career is paramount, and rushing the process could have detrimental consequences. With his commercial appeal and standing within the sport still substantial, Joshua’s next move holds immense significance, shaping the trajectory of his career and his legacy within the boxing world. Therefore, ensuring he is 100% fit and prepared is crucial before embarking on what is undoubtedly one of the most significant decisions of his professional life.
