In a remarkable twist of boxing camaraderie, former foe Oleksandr Usyk has pledged his support to Anthony Joshua, with the ultimate goal of preparing 'AJ' for a long-awaited British super-fight against Tyson Fury.
From Rivals to Training Partners
The two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk, who defeated Joshua in both of their high-stakes encounters, has been working with the Brit over recent weeks. Despite sharing a gruelling 24 professional rounds in the ring as opponents, the pair have formed a unique bond. Usyk confirmed his commitment during an interview with Boxing King Media, stating simply, "Yeah. I will help him."
Sergey Lapin from Team Usyk provided details on the unexpected link-up, telling OLBG that Joshua proactively sought out new methods. "AJ is someone who’s always looking to grow. That’s why he reached out — he wants new solutions and honest work that can take him to the next level," Lapin explained. He clarified that the sessions did not involve sparring, as it was not relevant for Joshua's immediate challenge.
The Road Back: Paul First, Then Fury?
Joshua's immediate focus is a professional heavyweight bout against YouTube sensation-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The fight is scheduled for December 19 in Miami and will be streamed live on Netflix. For UK fans, the main event ring walks are expected around 4am GMT.
This contest marks Joshua's return following a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in front of 95,000 fans at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. Promoter Eddie Hearn framed the Paul fight as a strategic, high-profile "run out" to regain momentum. "Once we smash Jake Paul in December, we’ll be 100 per cent, unquestionably the hottest thing in boxing," Hearn told the Sun.
The grand plan, backed by Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh, is for Joshua to have a competitive fight in February 2025. If successful in both outings, the stage would be set for a colossal summer showdown with Tyson Fury.
Fury's Shadow and a Historic Opportunity
The 'Gypsy King' Fury has been retired since January 2025 after his two defeats to Usyk, but has frequently hinted at a comeback, posting training videos and fuelling speculation of a 2026 return. A fight between Fury and Joshua remains one of the most lucrative and iconic matches in British sporting history.
Hearn addressed critics of the Jake Paul matchup, emphasising the bigger picture. "Sometimes in life you’ve just gotta think a little bit bigger than that. This is an opportunity that couldn’t be missed," he stated, highlighting the financial and promotional benefits that pave the way for the ultimate prize: a Fury fight.
With Usyk's tactical wisdom now in Joshua's corner, the British heavyweight's path to a career-defining clash with Tyson Fury has taken a fascinating and unprecedented turn.
