By Emeka Dennar
Tyson Fury has accused Anthony Joshua of avoiding their long-awaited all-British heavyweight showdown, calling his rival a “coward” and claiming he is “conning everybody” as negotiations for the blockbuster fight continue.
The two former world champions had appeared closer than ever to finally agreeing a deal, but discussions have reportedly stalled over the venue. Saudi organisers, Sela, are keen to stage the fight in the United States, while Joshua’s camp has consistently insisted that the bout should take place in the United Kingdom.
Fury took to Instagram on Wednesday to express his frustration over the delay, insisting he has been willing to fight anywhere. The former heavyweight champion said he had agreed to every proposed location, including England, Ireland, Las Vegas and New York, without placing any conditions on the deal.
“Joshua, where are you? Still no deal done. It’s getting quite tiring,” Fury said. “I’ve been down to fight in every location that’s been mentioned. I’ve said yes every single time with zero stipulations. The facts are that I feel like you’re being a coward. I feel like you don’t want the fight and you’re just conning everybody. I feel like you’ve been doing that for years.”
Joshua heads into the negotiations after a second-round knockout victory over Kristian Prenga in July, although he was knocked down twice in the opening round before recovering to secure the win.
Fury also last fought in July, facing veteran Polish heavyweight Mariusz Wach. The bout ended in the seventh round when the 46-year-old Wach retired, handing Fury another victory as anticipation continued to build over a potential clash with Joshua.
