Promoter Eddie Hearn has indicated that the contracted terms for the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury stipulate the fight must take place in the United Kingdom. Should there be any consideration of moving the bout to the United States, Joshua's team would need to agree to new terms.
Both Joshua, 36, and Fury, 37, are two-time world champions and remain prominent figures in British boxing. The organization of this super-fight has been spearheaded by Turki Alalshikh, with the contractual negotiations involving Joshua and Fury's respective teams directly with Saudi Arabian representatives.
Hearn clarified that neither his company, Matchroom, nor Frank Warren's Queensberry promotions can act as the lead promoter. He explained that doing so would grant an unfair advantage to one fighter's side over the other. UFC president Dana White has asserted his central role in staging the fight, stating he is aware of the date and location and would be promoting it. White was present at a UFC event on June 14, where he teased a "massive announcement" before revealing his involvement with Alalshikh. Warren later confirmed to BBC Sport that Queensberry would continue to promote Fury alongside Alalshikh.
However, Hearn contested White's claim, stating, "The contract clearly states that Dana White and Zuffa Boxing, or anyone associated, cannot be the promoters of this event." Hearn believes White's comments may have arisen from Alalshikh asking him to investigate the financial feasibility of holding the fight in Las Vegas, and that White subsequently overstated his actual role.
When asked if he would reconsider White's involvement, Hearn commented, "Money changes a lot of things." Hearn and White have developed a public rivalry since Zuffa Boxing entered the sport, with White signing boxer Conor Benn, who was previously promoted by Matchroom. Alalshikh has suggested an upcoming meeting will include discussions to resolve this rivalry, though Hearn expressed a preference for continued competition, stating, "I would be disappointed if Turki Alalshikh makes us find peace, because I want war."