Eddie Hearn, promoter for Tyson Fury, has issued a significant statement regarding the upcoming fight against Anthony Joshua, casting doubt on the event’s viability, sparking a public battle between the pair and their respective promoters. The fight, scheduled for November, is expected to take place in the United Kingdom, a move that has triggered considerable uncertainty within the boxing world, particularly concerning compensation for Joshua and the potential for Saudi Arabian involvement. The contract signed with the UK is separate from a proposed move to the US, with Saudi organizers advocating for a location in the States.
Joshua and his manager, Saudi Arabian-owned Sela, have agreed to a deal for the fight to be staged in the UK, with the broadcast planned for Netflix. However, this arrangement has been complicated by a significant change to the compensation structure, outlined in a recently delivered list of additions to the contract. Specifically, the main point of contention revolves around Joshua’s tax implications when fighting in America, where he’s contractually bound to receive less money than if the fight were in the UK.
Hearn expressed his frustration, stating that the current situation is a result of ‘disgusting’ behavior from Sela and a desire to maximize profits for Joshua. The latest developments suggest a potential shift in the arrangement, with Saudi organizers pushing for a move to the US, potentially leading to a new arrangement involving the US. The BBC reported that the initial list of changes involved substantial financial considerations, including travel arrangements, accreditation, and media coverage. These changes were reportedly approved by Joshua and his lawyer before being sent to Sela.
The involvement of Dana White, president of the UFC, has added another layer to the situation, with White criticizing the potential for the fight to be staged in America. He argues that the decision is driven by TKO and Zuffa’s attempts to influence the event in the US, and to further enhance the narrative of the fight.
Furthermore, the situation has sparked a complex debate within the British boxing community. There is strong support for staging the fight in the UK, with many believing it’s vital for the continued growth of amateur boxing and the wider sport.
Joshua and Fury have both expressed their displeasure with the situation, with Fury making direct comments about Hearn’s motives and suggesting a potential return to the UK. Hearn has responded by highlighting Joshua’s history in Britain and their crossover status, further complicating the situation. The situation is currently being closely monitored by various boxing news outlets and industry analysts, with significant implications for the future of the Joshua-Fury rivalry and the landscape of British boxing.
[https://www.adomonline.com/boxing/joshua-fight-uncertainty-looms-as-anthony-joshua-faces-location-deal-details](https://www.adomonline.com/boxing/joshua-fight-uncertainty-looms-as-anthony-joshua-faces-location-deal-details)
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Source: Adom Sports
