Joshua vs Fury Set for December Clash in Cardiff

The long-anticipated fight between former heavyweight champions Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury will finally happen. The bout is scheduled for Friday, December 11, at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, with live coverage on Netflix.

There was some controversy over the venue as discussions considered Madison Square Garden in New York City, which would have been a surprising choice. Ultimately, the fight remains in the UK but with plans to hold ring walks late at night to suit audiences in the United States.

Background of the Fighters

Joshua, 36, and Fury, 38, have each held world heavyweight titles twice. Their potential matchup has been debated for nearly ten years.

They initially agreed to fight in 2021, but that fell apart after Deontay Wilder threatened legal action against Fury, leading Fury to face Wilder in a trilogy match instead. Fury won that fight by stoppage, retaining the WBC title. This happened shortly after Joshua lost his unified titles to Oleksandr Usyk. Joshua’s defeat to Usyk marked his second career loss, followed by another loss in a 2022 rematch. Usyk also defeated Fury twice in 2024.

Recent Activity and Build-Up

The Joshua vs Fury clash remained a hot topic despite both losing their unbeaten streaks and belts.

In April, Fury came out of retirement for the fifth time, defeating Arslanbek Makhmudov on points while Joshua watched ringside. Soon after, the fight was officially signed, though date and venue were initially undisclosed.

Joshua continued to prepare with bouts including a notable sixth-round victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in December. Shortly after, he survived a car crash that tragically killed two teammates. In July, Joshua fought Kristian Prenga, suffering two knockdowns before scoring a second-round knockout. Around the same time, Fury defeated 46-year-old Mariusz Wach in Thailand, a fight that went untelevised.

Venue Negotiations and Final Decision

Saudi matchmaker Turki Alalshikh suggested a November date at Wembley Stadium, London, with ring walks planned for 2am GMT to reach a global audience. Joshua’s contract required a UK location, while Fury’s was more flexible. Despite talks about a US venue, Joshua and promoter Eddie Hearn opposed it, so the fight will take place in Wales.

"Two of the best heavyweights of this generation, finally in the ring together," said Alalshikh. "This will be one of the biggest fights in boxing history. I am very happy to make this fight happen for the fans."