While the "Battle of Britain" has eluded fans for years, Joshua’s post-fight comments and a series of explosive updates regarding both fighters have reignited the flame for a definitive heavyweight clash.
"Put Down the Twitter Fingers": Joshua Challenges Fury
Moments after the referee waved off the contest in Miami, a composed Joshua used his victory platform to send a direct message to the "Gypsy King."
"If Tyson Fury is as serious as he thinks he is, and he wants to put down his Twitter fingers and put on some gloves, then step in the ring with me next if you're a real bad boy," Joshua told the live Netflix audience. "Let's see you in the ring and talk with your fists."
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, doubled down on the challenge, stating that a contract could be signed within "eight weeks" for a fight in the summer of 2026. The move follows reports from The Ring Magazine that Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Season is already positioning the bout as a marquee event for next year.
Jake Paul Undergoes Surgery for Double Jaw Fracture
While Joshua looks toward the future, his opponent is facing a lengthy recovery. Jake Paul was rushed to a Miami hospital immediately following the fight after complaining of severe facial pain.
Medical assessments confirmed that Joshua’s devastating right hand in the sixth round caused a double fracture of the jaw. On Sunday, Paul’s team confirmed the 28-year-old had successfully undergone surgery to insert titanium plates into his face.
"I got my a-- whooped by one of the best to ever do it," Paul posted from his hospital bed. "The jaw is broken, but the spirit isn't. I'll be back." Doctors expect Paul to be restricted to a liquid diet for several weeks, with a full return to training not expected for at least four to six months.
The Road to 2026
The potential for a 2026 mega-fight marks a significant U-turn for Tyson Fury, who had previously announced his retirement in early 2025 following back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk.
However, Fury’s recent social media activity suggests the "Gypsy King" is tempted by the prospect of silencing his long-term rival. Before the Miami bout, Fury labeled Joshua a "classless loser" for fighting a YouTuber, but insiders suggest the commercial scale of an all-British heavyweight clash is now too large for either man to ignore.
With Joshua now 29-4 (26 KOs) and back in the win column, the stage is set for a historic 2026 that could finally settle the debate of who reigns supreme in British heavyweight boxing.