Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury target UK stadium for November mega-fight
A UK stadium has emerged as the frontrunner to host the highly anticipated heavyweight clash between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury this November, though venues in the United States and Saudi Arabia remain under consideration.
The British rivals have formally signed an agreement to face each other later this year, aiming to settle a deeply personal feud that spans decades.
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed that while Britain is the preferred location, the final financial decision rests with Saudi advisor Turki Alalshikh.
“I think the UK is probably the frontrunner, but both fighters are receiving a huge amount of money and Turki Alalshikh is paying the bill,” Hearn said.
Winter weather considerations for British venues
Holding a major sporting event in November presents distinct logistical challenges for outdoor British locations due to unpredictable winter weather.
Wembley Stadium remains a natural candidate for a domestic blockbuster of this unprecedented magnitude.
However, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff offers the security of a retractable roof, while the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has successfully hosted major winter bouts previously.
“Obviously it is in November, it does limit you slightly but wherever that fight lands we’ll be ready,” Hearn added.
Crucial warm-up bouts await both heavyweights
Before the domestic dust-up can materialise, both former world champions must successfully navigate interim contests this summer.
The Olympic gold medallist will travel to Riyadh on 25 July to face Albanian contender Kristian Prenga.
Meanwhile, the self-styled Gypsy King is also expected to take a crucial tune-up fight in early August to shed ring rust.
Despite Prenga lacking elite world-class credentials, his daunting record of 20 knockouts in 21 victories makes him a highly dangerous underdog.
“Everybody just presumes AJ will walk through Prenga, but he’s a decent fighter,” Hearn cautioned.
“He’s looking at it thinking: ‘Blimey, I chin Anthony Joshua, I’ve cracked it,’ so you’ve got to be switched on for it.”