Anthony Joshua Names Murat Gassiev as Next Opponent if He Defeats Tyson Fury
Anthony Joshua has revealed who he plans to face next after his upcoming fight against Tyson Fury scheduled for December 11th at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. This clash is widely regarded as one of the biggest in British boxing history.
The rivalry between Fury and Joshua has been brewing for years, with multiple failed attempts to bring the fight into an arena setting finally culminating in this highly anticipated showdown in Wales. Besides pride, the contest may also involve the WBA 'Super' heavyweight title, potentially marking the first time this belt is fought over by two boxers who currently hold no world title between them.
WBA Titles and Controversy Surrounding the Fight
Russian heavyweight Murat Gassiev currently holds the WBA 'Regular' heavyweight championship, having received the title when Oleksandr Usyk vacated all his belts earlier this year. Gassiev successfully defended this title in July against Peter Kadiru.
Despite the speculation that Fury vs Joshua might be for the WBA 'Super' heavyweight title, Gassiev’s camp has voiced strong objections. John Wirt, co-promoter and legal counsel for Gassiev, demanded the WBA deny any reports suggesting otherwise, emphasizing that the rightful champion should be Gassiev, not two fighters without a world title.
"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," said Wirt.
Joshua's Intentions After Facing Fury
Speaking to talkSPORT right after the press conference unveiling the Fury fight, Joshua was clear about his next target if he wins. When asked who would be next, Joshua responded simply: "Murat Gassiev."
The WBA rules require the 'Super' champion to defend the title against the 'Regular' champion. Though some fighters choose to vacate titles to avoid mandatory defenses, Joshua appears committed to honoring this obligation, much to the satisfaction of Gassiev’s team.
Many understand why Joshua or Fury might want to sidestep a fight with Gassiev given his lower marketability and the much bigger payday the Fury fight promises. Yet Joshua’s willingness to face Gassiev adds a notable layer to the heavyweight landscape moving forward.
Upcoming Fight Schedule
- UELFACMLSEPLUCL10/10 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
