Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight champion, has a unique perspective on the potential clash between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. Having fought both men, he knows their strengths and weaknesses firsthand. He's also had his own battles with both, becoming the first to defeat Joshua, then dethroning Fury to unify the heavyweight titles. Now, with his rematch against Fury looming in December, Usyk has offered his prediction for the potential Joshua-Fury showdown, should it come to fruition.

Usyk, who's known for his calm and calculated approach, sides with Joshua, citing his recent form as the deciding factor. He said, "I guess Anthony, ‘AJ’. I guess ‘AJ’."

This isn't a unanimous sentiment in the boxing world. Otto Wallin, another fighter who's faced both Brits, recently threw his support behind Fury.

Usyk's prediction hinges on a series of events falling into place. Both Joshua and Fury must emerge victorious in their respective upcoming bouts. Joshua is set to face Daniel Dubois next month, while Fury will defend his WBC title against Usyk in December.

If both men are successful, the much-anticipated showdown could materialize early in 2025, marking a decade since their rivalry began. The fight has been a long time coming, with the two heavyweights initially set to clash in 2021. However, Fury was forced to defend his title against Deontay Wilder for a third time, and Joshua ultimately lost his belts to Usyk.

Even if Fury loses to Usyk, the fight could still happen. Barry Hearn, father to Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn, is confident that the two will eventually meet in the ring.

The Fight That the World Wants

Hearn stated that "Joshua against Tyson Fury in early 2025 is the fight that we have a responsibility to deliver and we don't walk away from our responsibilities." He added, "It's the one the world's waiting for. There isn't a venue big enough to stage the number of people that would like to attend that. It will be colossal."

Hearn acknowledges the immense commercial appeal of the fight, stating that "Usyk is a top-class world champion as a boxer, but doesn't have the commercial appeal of Tyson Fury."

The potential for a Joshua-Fury fight has captured the imagination of boxing fans worldwide. It represents a clash of styles and personalities, a battle between two of the sport's biggest names.

The Road to a Heavyweight Showdown

While Usyk's prediction might be intriguing, the road to a Joshua-Fury fight remains a winding one. Both fighters have hurdles to clear before a potential meeting.

Joshua's fight against Dubois will be a test of his resilience and focus. A loss could derail his momentum and cast doubt on his ability to compete at the highest level.

Fury, meanwhile, faces a daunting rematch with Usyk, who will be looking to avenge his loss to the British heavyweight. A loss to Usyk could signal the end of Fury's reign and leave the heavyweight division in a state of flux.

The boxing world is holding its breath, eagerly anticipating what the future holds for Joshua, Fury, and Usyk. Only time will tell if the highly anticipated showdown between Joshua and Fury will come to fruition.

The Usyk Factor

Usyk, the undisputed champion, has undoubtedly become a pivotal figure in this heavyweight drama. His presence in the division creates an air of uncertainty and potential chaos.

While his prediction might be a talking point, Usyk's own future could have a significant impact on the Joshua-Fury matchup. If he defeats Fury in their rematch, the entire landscape of the heavyweight division could shift. Usyk could then choose to pursue a unification fight with Joshua, putting the anticipated clash on hold.

Usyk's influence on the heavyweight division cannot be underestimated. He's not just a champion; he's a potential game-changer. His presence casts a shadow over the future of Joshua and Fury, adding an element of unpredictability to the already volatile heavyweight landscape.

The next few months will be crucial for the heavyweight division, and Usyk's role in this drama is far from over.

Conclusion: A Heavyweight Tale to Be Continued

The heavyweight division is a fascinating realm of power and ambition, with Usyk, Joshua, and Fury at its center. The future of the division is shrouded in uncertainty, with each fighter's path intertwined with the others.

Usyk's prediction adds a compelling layer to the story, sparking anticipation and debate. However, the real story lies in the unfolding events, the battles yet to be fought, and the uncertainties that surround the heavyweight division.

The heavyweight crown is up for grabs, and the fight for supremacy is far from over. The story of the heavyweight division is just beginning to unfold, promising a future filled with drama, excitement, and the pursuit of boxing's ultimate prize.