Promoter Frank Warren has revealed that Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will earn record-high career paydays when they settle their decade-long rivalry on December 11 at Principality Stadium in Cardiff. The fight, backed by Netflix and Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh, follows years of failed negotiations and false starts. Disputes over the venue and UFC boss Dana White's involvement had threatened to derail the bout as recently as this year.
Warren, a promoter of nearly five decades, said the financial rewards on offer ultimately proved too significant for the fight to fall apart again. He expressed confidence that the fight would happen, citing the huge purses on offer. According to Warren, the payday will be the highest of their careers and possibly the highest of any British fighter's career ever.
The fight was initially considered for Madison Square Garden in New York with White's backing, but Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, held firm to a legally binding contract requiring the bout to take place in the UK without White's involvement. Warren helped secure a deal with the 70,000-seat Principality Stadium. A later ring-walk time of between one and two in the morning is reportedly being negotiated to accommodate a prime-time audience in the US.
Warren justified the late start time, citing the global nature of the sport and the need to accommodate a US audience. He noted that some World Cup matches had been held at late hours to cater to American viewers. Warren emphasized that the person who has put up the money for the fight deserves to benefit from it.
As Fury's promoter, Warren expressed confidence in his fighter's ability to prevail, predicting a knockout victory. He analyzed the styles of both fighters, noting that Fury has worn better than Joshua over the years. Warren highlighted Fury's strong chin and ability to take shots, citing historical examples of great fighters who have been knocked down but gotten back up.
The December bout is part of a busy stretch of boxing before the year ends, with several high-profile fights scheduled. Ben Whittaker will face Conor Wallace on October 3, Daniel Dubois will meet Fabio Wardley in a rematch on October 17, and Canelo Alvarez will take on Christian Mbili on October 31.
The upcoming fight between Fury and Joshua has generated significant interest, with many boxing fans eagerly anticipating the showdown. Warren's comments have added to the hype, with his prediction of a Fury knockout victory likely to fuel further debate and speculation about the outcome.
Key points
- Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will earn record-high career paydays when they face off on December 11 at Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
- The fight, backed by Netflix and Saudi financier Turki Alalshikh, follows years of failed negotiations and false starts.
- Promoter Frank Warren has expressed confidence in Fury's ability to prevail, predicting a knockout victory.
