Tyson Fury has called Anthony Joshua a “coward” as uncertainty continues to surround their proposed heavyweight super-fight.
Fury, in a series of social media posts, questioned whether the bout would go ahead, blaming disagreements over the financial terms and venue.
The fight had been expected to take place in November, but negotiations have become complicated over where it should be staged. Joshua’s camp had agreed for the bout to be held in the United Kingdom, while Saudi organisers are reportedly pushing for a venue in the United States.
Fury criticised Joshua and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, accusing them of seeking more money.
“It doesn’t look like they’re going to sign the fight and it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen,” Fury said.
He subsequently described Joshua and Hearn as “money-thirsty” before calling Joshua a “coward” and claiming that his rival had never had the courage to fight him.
The proposed fight is expected to be broadcast on Netflix, with Madison Square Garden in New York reportedly being considered as the preferred venue to attract a wider American audience.
However, Hearn has explained that Joshua could receive less money if the fight is moved to the United States because of differences in taxation.
He said his team had submitted proposed changes to Sela, the Saudi-owned company involved in organising the fight, including adjustments to Joshua’s compensation and arrangements concerning travel, accreditation and media activities.
According to Hearn, the issue is not simply about demanding more money but ensuring that Joshua receives the amount agreed under the original terms.
The situation has been further complicated by the involvement of Zuffa Boxing, jointly owned by Sela and TKO Group Holdings. Hearn has alleged that the parties influenced Saudi officials to favour staging the fight in the United States.
Despite the latest disagreement, Fury has maintained that he wants the fight to happen and believes there remains strong support for a UK venue.
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