After it became apparent in the last few days that the “Battle of Britain” between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua is on the brink, the “Gypsy King” has actually canceled the fight on social media. But there is already a plan B. Fury will face off against former German heavyweight world champion Mahmoud Charr.
“The day of judgment has come and gone,” Fury said in a video directed at Joshua. “It’s after five o’clock [englische Zeit, d.Red.] on Monday and no contract was signed. It’s officially over for Joshua,” Fury continued, who then throws a series of insults at his compatriot. “I always knew you weren’t man enough to fight the Gypsy King. I don’t care what you say now. Good luck in your career and life,” concludes Fury.
In the last few days, the 34-year-old has called on “AJ” several times to finally sign the contract he has. Joshua explained over the weekend that the document is currently with his lawyers and is being put through its paces. Fury, on the other hand, didn’t go fast enough.
The WBC champ, on the other hand, quickly demanded clarity. Otherwise, the Englishman explained, he would look for another opponent.
It is now clear that the search was not long: in the evening, Fury confirmed on Instagram that he was aiming for a duel with Charr. Charr’s side explained that the fight will take place in Manchester or Cardiff on December 3.
Joshua promoter Eddie Hearn believes that was Fury’s plan from the start. He believes: The “Gypsy King” never intended to compete against Joshua. Instead, the “Gypsy King” wanted a duel against the German Manuel Charr, Hearn told “Seconds Out”.
“Fury wants to fight Charr, that’s pretty obvious. If the public sees it differently then they obviously have no idea,” Hearn said. Fury’s deadline for signing the contract should not be met under any circumstances, said the promoter: “There is still so much to do. It takes time for a fight like this to happen. We waited ten days for the contract and suddenly he wants to sign it within 24 hours back. Not a chance!”
Fury and Charr trade blows
Charr and Fury have exchanged blows on social media over the past few days and weeks. Charr publicly challenged Fury, the WBC champion responded and offered the German a fight.
Shortly before the end of Fury’s contract ultimatum, Charr posted striking words towards Joshua on Instagram. He should sign and take the chance “to fight one of the best, Tyson Fury”. Otherwise he should make room and let “real men” fight the fight.
Now Charr gets a chance to walk the talk.