Full Breakdown
Joshua-Fury Showdown: Location Standoff Intensifies
9/2/2026, 12:06:12 AM
Fight Negotiations Reach Critical Stage
Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury have signed contracts for a bout this year, but Joshua’s agreement stipulates the fight must be held in the United Kingdom. Netflix and Saudi boxing financier Turki Alalshikh are pushing for a United States venue to capture prime-time American viewership. Promoter Eddie Hearn is now revising the contract to accommodate a possible move to New York’s Madison Square Garden, with a target date of November 20.
Background: Contractual and Financial Stakes
Joshua’s team demanded an increase in his purse to offset the higher UK tax burden that would apply if the fight were staged in the United States. The promoter confirmed that Joshua has been paid in full for his July 25 victory over Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, clearing the way for the location talks to proceed. Hearn has presented a list of terms to the U.S.-based partners, emphasizing that the only non-negotiable clause is the tax-related compensation.
Official Statements from Eddie Hearn
Hearn said the decision must be made within the week and that the “ball’s in their court” regarding a November 20 press conference and fight.
Verbatim Quote
- “Our dream and our hope is they just turn around and go, ‘This is too messy, we’ll just do it in Wembley'” — Apple. RECOMMENDED STORIES He
Upcoming Timeline
The revised terms were received three days ago, and Hearn expects a final decision by the end of the week. If the U.S. side accepts the conditions, the bout could be announced for November 20 at Madison Square Garden; otherwise, the promoter hopes the fight will revert to Wembley in London.
