Barry Hearn suggests that a potential match-up between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul could generate more interest than a highly anticipated all-British heavyweight fight with Tyson Fury.
Joshua has been out of action since his defeat to Daniel Dubois last September. Despite initial talks of a clash with Fury following the latter’s losses, Fury announced his retirement from boxing shortly after. However, Fury has now confirmed his comeback and is eyeing a fight next year.
While Fury remains open to facing Joshua, it seems that Joshua may prioritize a bout with Paul instead. Both fighters have engaged in verbal exchanges and have expressed their willingness to fight each other.
Hearn believes that the Joshua-Paul fight could draw more attention than a Joshua-Fury showdown. He emphasized the importance of listening to market demands and indicated that responding to what fans want is crucial in the business.
Paul has already expressed confidence in facing Joshua next year, aiming to make it one of the biggest fights in boxing history. Meanwhile, Joshua is recovering from an elbow operation and aims to return to the ring before the year ends.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed that Joshua’s surgery went well and hinted at a potential comeback in the final months of the year. Despite shifting focus from a Fury fight for now, Joshua still hopes to meet Fury in the ring before retiring.
