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Anthony Joshua Names His Next Opponent If He Defeats Tyson Fury

Anthony Joshua has announced who he wants to fight next if he manages to beat Tyson Fury this December.

The long-awaited clash between these two British boxing giants is set for December 11th at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. Attempts to stage this fight in a proper arena have failed for years, but now it seems they are finally on track to meet in Wales.

What’s at Stake: WBA ‘Super’ Heavyweight Title

This bout might carry more than just pride. The WBA 'Super' heavyweight championship could be up for grabs, possibly marking the first time in history that this belt will be contested between two fighters who don't currently hold world titles.

Not everyone is happy about this potential title fight. Russian heavyweight Murat Gassiev, who holds the WBA 'Regular' heavyweight championship after Oleksandr Usyk vacated his titles in June, is displeased. Gassiev defended his title in July against Peter Kadiru.

Gassiev’s team has formally objected to the idea of Fury vs Joshua fighting for the WBA Super title. They demand the WBA publicly deny these reports and protect Gassiev’s status as the sole world heavyweight champion under their sanctioning.

“If anyone should be fighting for the WBA Super heavyweight title, it is Murat Gassiev, the reigning champion, not two boxers who currently hold no world title between them,” said John Wirt, Gassiev’s co-promoter and legal advisor.

Joshua’s Next Move: Facing Murat Gassiev

Right after the press conference announcing the Fury fight, Joshua was asked about his plans if he wins. Without hesitation, he named just one opponent: “Murat Gassiev.”

Under WBA rules, the Super champion must defend the title against the Regular champion. It’s common nowadays for fighters to vacate titles to avoid certain opponents, but Joshua appears ready to meet that obligation.

Though Gassiev isn’t the most marketable opponent and won’t bring a big payday like Fury, Joshua seems committed to honoring the requirement should he come out on top in December. This news likely brings relief to Team Gassiev.

Upcoming Boxing Events

  • October 10, 12:30pm: Arsenal vs. Leeds United
  • October 10, 3:00pm: Sunderland vs. Brighton; Ipswich vs. Fulham; Chelsea vs. Bournemouth; Aston Villa vs. Brentford
  • October 10, 5:30pm: Manchester United vs. Tottenham
  • October 11, 12:00pm: Hull City vs. Everton; Crystal Palace vs. Nottingham Forest
  • October 11, 4:30pm: Liverpool vs. Manchester City
  • October 12, 8:00pm: Coventry vs. Newcastle
  • October 17, 12:30pm: Everton vs. Chelsea
  • October 17, 3:00pm: Manchester City vs. Ipswich; Fulham vs. Hull City; Brentford vs. Liverpool
  • October 17, 5:30pm: Newcastle vs. Aston Villa
  • October 18, 2:00pm: Leeds United vs. Manchester United; Brighton vs. Crystal Palace; Bournemouth vs. Sunderland
  • October 18, 4:30pm: Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal

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