Fury-Joshua Fight Stalemate: Alalshikh Faced with Unfavorable Options

Matchroom has proposed significant changes to the Fury-Joshua fight structure, including control over the production process under Sela, payment of Joshua’s remaining purse from his prism fight, and assurances for logistical aspects like tickets and security. The deal might also grant Matchroom influence over the undercard, with potential matchups like Jesse Rodriguez vs. Christian Medina and Jack Catterall vs. Keyshawn Davis under discussion. Teremoana Jnr and Odel Kamara could also be included.

Alalshikh’s reluctance to cede promotional rights to Matchroom contrasts with his financial backing of the event. He financed the card through Sela but now faces a promotional arrangement dominated by Matchroom, which could diminish Zuffa Boxing’s role. Dana White’s absence in such a production further complicates Zuffa’s stake in the fight’s success.

Hosting the fight in the UK resolves the venue conflict but risks alienating American audiences due to the afternoon timing, which reduces its appeal as a Netflix event. While local attendance would be high, the lack of a prime Friday-night slot at Madison Square Garden is a strategic drawback.

With both boxers delivering underwhelming performances—Joshua trailing in his last fight and Fury appearing exhausted against an older opponent—questions about their readiness for a high-stakes clash persist. Alalshikh’s primary motivation might now be legacy rather than financial gain, as the deal risks costing more than it returns.

Update: Hearn Confirms Joshua’s Price for New York

Eddie Hearn has clarified that Anthony Joshua is open to traveling to the U.S. if Sela accepts Matchroom’s contractual terms. The addendum includes adjustments for tax differences, travel costs, media rights, and other protections. Hearn stated that Matchroom approached him after Sela requested terms to move the fight from the UK.

This clarification shifts the narrative. Hearn is not blocking a New York fight but seeking terms that make it feasible for Joshua while maintaining Matchroom’s stake in an event Sela is funding.

“They asked, ‘What do you need to make this happen?’ We outlined requirements to ensure stability, as we don’t want to keep negotiating endlessly,”

– Eddie Hearn, iFL TV

Matchroom has also requested payments for unrelated ventures like darts, snooker, and past events, though Hearn clarified these are separate from the Fury-Joshua addendum.

The commercial tension remains unresolved. Alalshikh must decide whether to accept terms that could weaken Zuffa’s position, increase costs, or reduce control. Declining the addendum doesn’t eliminate the scheduling conflict, but Matchroom now has a clearer financial ask, complicating Alalshikh’s position.

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