The ongoing saga of arranging a fight between Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua, two prominent figures in heavyweight boxing, continues to intrigue fans and insiders alike. Promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom recently shed light on past attempts to make this high-profile matchup a reality, particularly focusing on an offer from Wilder’s camp.
A few years ago, Wilder’s team purportedly offered a staggering $50 million for a bout with Joshua. This offer, intriguingly sent via email from a Hotmail address directly to Joshua, set off a series of negotiations that ultimately led nowhere. Hearn, representing Joshua, responded with a request for a detailed contract to establish the terms clearly. However, this critical next step in formalizing the fight never materialized, as Wilder’s handlers refused to send over a contract until terms were agreed upon – a move Hearn deemed unconventional and potentially risky.
Wilder, on his part, has suggested that Joshua’s management has been a significant barrier to their fight. He believes that Joshua, as a fighter, was keen on the matchup, but his handlers, wary of the financial risks, have been the obstacle. According to Wilder, Joshua is the linchpin in their company, and his defeat could have broader implications for their business interests.
Both Wilder and Joshua are set to fight other opponents on a major card on December 23rd in Saudi Arabia. Wilder will face former world champion Joseph Parker, while Joshua takes on Otto Wallin. Should both emerge victorious, the possibility of a Wilder vs. Joshua fight in 2024 seems more tangible.
Despite past negotiation failures, Hearn remains optimistic about the chances of finally securing this much-anticipated fight. However, he emphasizes that everything hinges on the outcomes of their December bouts. If both Wilder and Joshua succeed, it sets the stage for a potential clash in 2024, a fight that boxing enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating for years.
Image Credit: Sky Sports