Anthony Joshua is once again focused on becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion, according to Barry Hearn.
Joshua is set to face Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title on September 21, while Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will battle for the WBC, WBA, and WBO titles on December 21.
Should Joshua defeat Dubois, a fight against the winner of Usyk vs Fury 2 for all the titles is anticipated.
British fans are eager for Fury to avenge his split-decision loss to Usyk and set up the long-awaited clash with Joshua. However, Joshua is equally driven by the prospect of a trilogy bout with Usyk after two previous defeats.
“He wants to beat Usyk,” Hearn Sr told Sky Sports. “In their first fight, he came out second best. After regrouping and still losing the second fight, he was deeply disappointed. It was a close split decision, but Joshua is a driven athlete. Money isn’t his main concern; he wants to win and build a legacy.”
Hearn added that even if Fury loses the rematch, a Joshua vs Fury fight could still be on the horizon.
“Joshua vs Tyson Fury in early 2025 is a fight we must deliver. I personally believe Usyk will beat Fury in the rematch, which could make it easier to set up Joshua vs Fury if Fury loses. If Joshua defeats Dubois, he’ll hold the IBF belt, setting the stage for a unification bout.”
