Former boxer, pundits divided over venue for Joshua vs Fury showdown
Boxing lovers and pundits are divided over the venue for the much-anticipated boxing showdown between British pugilist Tyson Fury and his compatriot, Anthony Joshua.
The boxing match-up which was supposed to be staged in the UK has been shifted to take place at the Madison Square Gardens in New York, thus causing disaffection from close watchers of the sport about the sudden venue shift.
Former champion Mike Tyson is the latest boxing personality to express displeasure about the venue shift of the heavyweight clash between Joshua and Fury from UK to the USA despite acknowledging that his own criminal record bars him from entering the European country.
Tyson who revealed that much in an interview with Daily Mail stated that from the perspective of the fans, the boxing showdown should be staged in the UK to allow fans of both boxers who are mostly British enjoy the match-up without too much hassle.
According to him, the fight should take place in the UK because most of the fans and supporters of both boxers may travel to meet a packed venue on the day of the fight between both boxers.
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“It’s going to be a great fight, it’s going to be great for boxing… even though I can’t go – I’m barred from London – I think London should get the fight,’ said Tyson.
Tyson Fury’s promoter and industry figure, Frank Warren has also acknowledged the deep frustrations of British fans losing a historic home soil bout of a lifetime.
Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn has done all in his power to keep the fight in the UK due to fears of massive tax and financial disadvantages for his client if the bout eventually takes place in the USA, while Joshua’s former trainer, Robert Garcia fears staging the showdown away from home could cause psychological and environmental hurdles for AJ.
However, Fury’s former sparing partner and cutman, Jorge Capetillo has told those who care to listen that Fury does not care about the venue of the fight between him or Joshua be it staged in the UK or the US.
Reports say Capetillo remains excited about the possibility of reuniting with the “Gypsy King” in fight camp when and if the event lands in the United States.
