The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as a potential final eliminator between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder looms on the horizon. This match could be one of the biggest final eliminators ever seen, with the winner getting a shot at Tyson Fury’s WBC title.
Upcoming Fights: Setting the Stage
- Anthony Joshua: Set to face Otto Wallin on December 23.
- Deontay Wilder: Will take on Joseph Parker on the same date.
Both fighters must emerge victorious in these matches to set up their highly anticipated clash next year.
The Road to the WBC Title
Despite being the top two contenders with the WBC, Joshua and Wilder won’t be fighting for the heavyweight championship immediately. The WBC confirmed that their title would be contested in the Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk undisputed title fight on February 17, as well as in an anticipated rematch between the two.
The WBC’s Commitment to an Undisputed Champion
Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC president, has emphasized the organization’s dedication to establishing an undisputed heavyweight champion. He mentioned the WBC’s past efforts in trying to arrange a Wilder-Joshua fight and their support for Fury’s bouts against Joshua and then Usyk.
The Challenge of Mandatory Contenders
Sulaiman noted that mandatory contender status often complicates title fights. The WBC had ordered a fight between Wilder and Andy Ruiz to determine a mandatory contender, but the bout never materialized. This led to the approval of the Fury vs Usyk fight and its subsequent rematch without any WBC interference.
December 23: A Crucial Date
The December 23 fights are more than just individual bouts; they represent a natural WBC elimination tournament. With fighters like Wilder, Joshua, Parker, and Wallin, all highly ranked by the WBC, the post-December rankings will paint a clearer picture of the heavyweight division.
- Favored Winners: Joshua and Wilder are expected to win their respective fights.
- Outcome: The likelihood of a match between the American and the Briton in the following year.
The Possibility of a High-Profile Final Eliminator
Sulaiman expressed excitement at the prospect of a final eliminator between Joshua and Wilder. Such a match would not only determine a mandatory contender for the WBC title but also be one of the most significant eliminators in the sport’s history.
Sulaiman’s Vision
- Fan’s Dream: Sulaiman described the potential Joshua-Wilder fight as a dream come true for boxing enthusiasts.
- Era of Collaboration: He highlighted the cooperation among promoters, managers, and fighters, acknowledging the significant financial stakes involved.
- Support for Boxing’s Future: Sulaiman affirmed the WBC’s commitment to supporting this new era in boxing.
The Significance of Joshua-Wilder in the Boxing World
While a final eliminator usually leads to a title shot, the Joshua-Wilder fight holds significance beyond championship aspirations. It’s a clash of two of the sport’s most prominent figures, each with a unique style and fanbase.
The outcome of this fight will not only determine the next WBC mandatory challenger but also shape the narrative and hierarchy within the heavyweight division.
Conclusion: A New Era in Heavyweight Boxing
The potential match-up between Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder has set the boxing community abuzz. This bout, along with the Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk fights, marks a pivotal moment in heavyweight boxing. As December 23 approaches, the anticipation for what could be a historic eliminator grows, promising to usher in an exciting new era for the sport.
