Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has ruled out a potential bout with fellow British boxer Anthony Joshua for now, citing the recent fatal crash involving Joshua and members of his team.
Joshua was involved in a serious accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on December 29 when his vehicle collided with a stationary truck.
Two of his close associates, personal trainer Latif Ayodele and strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami, died at the scene.
Joshua sustained minor injuries and was discharged from hospital after two days of treatment.
Court proceedings against his driver, Adeniyi Kayode, have been adjourned until March 13 at a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State.
Fury, who is preparing for a return fight against unbeaten contender Arslanbek Makhmudov, said he would not pursue a showdown with Joshua under the current circumstances.
The upcoming bout is scheduled to stream on Netflix.
Speaking to The Ring Magazine, Fury said he was unwilling to face Joshua while his rival was dealing with personal tragedy.
“I’m not interested in going toe to toe with somebody who’s in a bad place at the moment. I’ve been in a bad place many, many times. I wish them boys all the best,” Fury said.
Fury and Joshua have long been linked with a high-profile all-British heavyweight clash but have never faced each other in the ring.
Negotiations intensified in 2020 after Joshua defeated Kubrat Pulev, raising hopes of a unification bout.
Talks later collapsed over financial disagreements between the camps.
A proposed two-fight agreement in 2021 also failed to materialise after a United States arbitration panel ordered Fury to complete his trilogy with Deontay Wilder.
Subsequent discussions between the two sides broke down amid contract disputes and Fury’s brief retirement announcement.
Joshua is reportedly targeting a return to action in July as he continues preparations for a comeback.
Fury’s latest comments suggest that while a long-anticipated fight remains possible, it will not be pursued in the immediate future.
The heavyweight division continues to watch developments closely as both fighters map out their next moves.