The all-British contest for the WBA “Super” heavyweight title was announced on Thursday by Turki Alalshikh and Netflix, to be staged at the Principality Stadium. It is billed as one of the biggest fights in British boxing history.
“Anthony Joshua and Eddie Hearn are trying to pull out of this fight. They’re saying they’re not going to fight now,” Fury said in a video posted on Friday.
The dispute centres on Dana White and Zuffa Boxing. Hearn has argued that White’s involvement as a named promoter breaches Joshua’s contract. Alalshikh, who is backing the event and is linked to Zuffa, has wanted White involved. Hearn and White have been at odds for months.
The fight had earlier been linked with New York and London before Cardiff was chosen. The 80,000-capacity stadium has hosted major football and rugby finals. A launch press conference in London was due this week.
Fury, 37, last boxed in July, beating Mariusz Wach in Thailand. Joshua, 36, survived two first-round knockdowns to defeat Kristian Prenga two months ago. Both are former two-time world heavyweight champions.
Fury blamed Hearn’s “ego” for the latest delay and said alternative opponents were being considered. Reports have mentioned David Benavidez as a possible replacement if Joshua withdraws.
No official cancellation has been issued by Netflix or Alalshikh. Until contracts are settled, the December date in Cardiff remains announced but not secure.