Former heavyweight champions Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder are currently engaged in discussions about the possibility of fighting on the same card in Saudi Arabia on December 23. Wilder’s team expresses hope that a deal can be finalized, presenting an opportunity to fill a gap on the scheduled card.
Originally, Tyson Fury’s bout against Oleksandr Usyk was set to headline the event. However, Fury’s challenging encounter with Francis Ngannou last month disrupted those plans. Despite this setback, organizers are notably confident that a deal with Joshua and Wilder is on the verge of completion.
Queensberry promoter Frank Warren has described December 23 as a ‘historic’ night for boxing, adding to the anticipation surrounding the potential matchups. Turki Alalshikh, representing Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, is taking the lead in discussions with Joshua and Wilder, collaborating closely with Queensberry Promotions.
Anthony Joshua, at 34, is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn, while Deontay Wilder has predominantly been associated with Premier Boxing Champions, advised by Al Haymon, and managed by Shelly Finkel throughout most of his career. The talks signify a significant development in the boxing world, potentially setting the stage for an exciting event in Saudi Arabia.
Hopes are high that a deal will be done for Joshua and Wilder to fight separate opponents and could be announced shortly as December 23 is only six weeks away.
The deal could pave the way for Joshua and Wilder to fight each other in 2024, although the possibility of Joshua vs Wilder appearing on the same card as Usyk vs Fury is unlikely.
WBC champion Fury and IBF, WBO and WBA belt holder Usyk are expected to fight in a long-awaited undisputed heavyweight bout by February in Saudi Arabia.
Earlier this year Joshua and 38-year-old Wilder were in talks with Saudi Arabia-based Skills Challenge about fighting before discussions collapsed. Alalshikh’s outfit has now emerged as the power broker for boxing in the country.
Joshua and Wilder are former world champions but are on the comeback trail since losing their world titles to Usyk and Fury respectively.
Fury, 35, is unbeaten in 35 fights, while former undisputed cruiserweight champion Usyk is undefeated in 21 bouts.
