Fury a step closer to Wilder fight

TYSON Fury’s proposed world heavyweight title showdown against Deontay Wilder has potentially moved one step closer after the WBC appeared to suggest they would have no problems backing the fight.

The Manchester boxer revealed last week he has been in talks with the American ahead of a fight in Las Vegas later this year.

If it was to go ahead, it would see Fury challenge for the WBC title, and their president Mauricio Sulaiman admits it looks like it’s happening.

“It seems that Wilder will fight Tyson Fury next. We are waiting for an official sanction request from the promoter,” said Sulaiman.

Before Fury can look at a potential fight with Wilder, he first has to beat Francesco Pianeta at Windsor Park in Belfast a week on Saturday.

Fury has revealed details on when he previously shared the ring with Pianeta during sparring sessions several years ago.

“I sparred with him in Germany when he was 26 and 0. He was tough, strong and he is a good opponent - very good. It was before he went on to fight Klitschko and Chagaev for world titles, but I was impressed,” said Fury.

“Pianeta is just one win away from being back right there among the best. Everybody brings their A-game when they face me. They know it’s a lottery win if they can beat me.”

It will be Fury’s second comeback fight since making his return to the ring, following on from his victory over Sefer Seferi in June. “I’m training hard in the gym every day. I’ve had no time off since the last fight. I’m getting in great shape and really focused on my job,” said Fury.