Anthony Joshua Names His Next Opponent After Tyson Fury Clash

Anthony Joshua has confirmed who he plans to face following his much-anticipated fight against Tyson Fury this December.

The showdown between Joshua and Fury is widely regarded as the biggest bout in British boxing history. Scheduled for December 11th at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, the fight marks the end of years of negotiations and attempts to get these two fighters into the ring.

This matchup might carry more significance than just pride. The WBA 'Super' heavyweight title is reportedly on the line, possibly marking the first time this championship will be contested by two boxers who currently do not hold a world title.

While fans eagerly await this clash, Murat Gassiev, the Russian heavyweight, seems less thrilled about the situation. Gassiev holds the WBA 'Regular' heavyweight title, which he claimed after Oleksandr Usyk vacated his belts in June. He successfully defended it in July against Peter Kadiru.

Gassiev's team has formally protested the idea of Fury and Joshua fighting for the 'Super' title, insisting that the WBA should publicly deny any such plans and preserve Gassiev's status as the sole world heavyweight champion.

John Wirt, Gassiev's co-promoter and legal counsel, stated: "If anyone should be fighting for the WBA Super heavyweight title, it is Murat Gassiev, the reigning champion, not two boxers who currently hold no world title between them."

After the press conference launching the Fury fight, Joshua was asked about his plans if he wins. Without hesitation, he named only one man as his next opponent: "Murat Gassiev." This aligns with WBA regulations requiring the 'Super' champion to defend the title against the 'Regular' champion.

In recent boxing history, it’s common for fighters to vacate titles to avoid certain matchups, often those deemed less lucrative or marketable. Gassiev, while a legitimate champion, does not bring the same level of market appeal as Joshua’s upcoming bout with Fury, which promises a significantly larger payday.

Nonetheless, Joshua appears ready to fulfill his obligations should he win, a stance that likely pleases Team Gassiev.

Upcoming Boxing Matches Schedule

• 10/10, 12:30pm: ARS vs LEE
• 10/10, 3:00pm: SUN vs BHA
• 10/10, 3:00pm: IPS vs FUL
• 10/10, 3:00pm: CFC vs BOR
• 10/10, 3:00pm: AST vs BRE
• 10/10, 5:30pm: MNU vs TOT
• 10/11, 2:00pm: HUL vs EVE
• 10/11, 2:00pm: CRY vs NOT
• 10/11, 4:30pm: LIV vs MNC
• 10/12, 8:00pm: COV vs NEW
• 10/17, 12:30pm: EVE vs CFC
• 10/17, 3:00pm: MNC vs IPS
• 10/17, 3:00pm: FUL vs HUL
• 10/17, 3:00pm: BRE vs LIV
• 10/17, 5:30pm: NEW vs AST
• 10/18, 2:00pm: LEE vs MNU
• 10/18, 2:00pm: BHA vs CRY
• 10/18, 2:00pm: BOR vs SUN
• 10/18, 4:30pm: NOT vs ARS