Q&A ‘The pot of gold is so big – Fury is better off not risking a warm-up’

Britain’s former world middleweight champion on the clamour for Anthony Joshua v tyson Fury and boxing’s hardship during the coronavirus crisis

Does victory over Kubrat Pulev lead Anthony Joshua (pictured) to Tyson Fury?

Yes. But whether it’s next or not, I don’t know. My worry is if AJ has to have his WBO mandatory defence against Oleksandr Usyk. Because if that happens, it’s not a foregone conclusion that Joshua wins. Usyk is a very good fighter and very dangerous.

Is there a danger this could get tangled up in red tape?

I think the money involved with AJFury means it has to happen. Fighters, trainers, promoters, managers – everyone stands to profit. On the boxing side, it is the ultimate prize for the winner. To be unified, undisputed heavyweight champion of the world is the biggest prize in the sport.

Up to £500million could reportedly be involved. Will the parties all get it done?

I’m thankful everyone is pushing for it. There are I’s to be dotted and T’s to be crossed but it’s been done before with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao in 2015. I just hope this doesn’t happen when it’s too late.

Do you see Fury taking a warm-up early in 2021?

He will not want to risk opening up that cut he got above his eye against Otto Wallin last year. He’s probably better sitting on his hands and waiting, not risking it. The pot of gold is so big – just wait for the Joshua fight now.

This week Callum Smith faces Canelo Alvarez for the WBC and WBA super-middle titles. Canelo is arguably the best pound-forpound fighter there is. Callum has to keep his punch output low – quality over quantity. It’s going to be tough for him but I can’t wait to see it.

Do you fear for grassroots boxing amid the pandemic?

For me it was so important to have boxing there, a clear path in front of me and a direction to go down. It was a guiding light for me and the last thing you want to see is kids now boxing or playing football on the computer rather than in real life.

What about the lack of government help?

I know. Tell me another sport that saves lives, that changes people’s lives, that gives you life skills, discipline and respect like boxing.

Is your 12x3 Gym staying open as London goes into Tier 3?

We can’t do group classes now but we think fitness is becoming so pivotal to people’s physical and mental health now, so we’re doing all we can to help.