What could happen next for the heavyweight trio
The holder of the World
Boxing Organisation, International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Association belts has his next fight at Wembley Stadium in April.
Joshua has said that he wanted Deontay Wilder to win because he would like to fight him next. But is that realistic? It will depend on how promoter Eddie Hearn and head trainer Rob Mccracken see the threats of both rivals. Joshua is a massively popular figure, and it is clear they are looking to minimise risks as the British fighter develops.
Joshua may end up fighting Dillian Whyte in a grudge rematch if Whyte defeats fellow British heavyweight Dereck Chisora on Dec 22.
There is a slim chance that the fight with Wilder could be made for April, but it is slim. Wilder, who retains his World Boxing Council belt, is keeping his options open. It could be Tyson Fury, it could be Joshua. Post-fight in LA, Wilder agreed to a Fury rematch. “I would love for the rematch to be my next fight,” he said. “Why not? Let’s give the fans what they want to see. It was a great fight. It doesn’t matter to me where we do it. We’re the two best in the world, and we proved it.”
But he added: “Though I am keen to unify the titles – one face, one champion.”
That means a fight with Joshua, but it is not likely until late 2019 or even 2020. He may even go for a rematch with Fury in six months’ time.
Controversy always sells rematches – and there will be negotiations like chess moves over the next four weeks.
Still undefeated and the lineal champion.
Fury is also ready to fight again against
Wilder. “One hundred per cent we’ll do the rematch,” he said. “We are two great champions. Me and this man are the two best heavyweights on the planet.”
Fury has a point. Both he and Wilder, stylistically, may have the tools to trouble Joshua. Fury, as we have seen, will fight each of them when he is ready.
Wilder next is the best option. However, this is boxing, and he could even end up facing Joshua next, but if Wilder goes the Joshua route first, then the lineal champion will await the winner.