AGS NEWS – Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has thrown his support behind Anthony Joshua to defeat Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated showdown, stating that Joshua only needs to rebuild his self-confidence to regain his place at the top of boxing.

Wilder, undeterred by Joshua’s recent knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, believes the British rivals’ clash could go the distance, with Joshua emerging victorious if he overcomes his mental barriers.

“I can see Joshua beating him (Fury). It’s crazy to say, but I really see Joshua winning that fight,” Wilder said. “He needs to stop doubting himself and overthinking. If he adjusts mentally, he can come back stronger.”

The matchup, projected to generate over $300 million, remains one of boxing’s biggest spectacles despite both fighters’ recent losses—Fury to Oleksandr Usyk and Joshua to Dubois.

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Top Rank president Todd DuBoef expressed confidence in the fight’s appeal, calling it a national event for Britain. “In the UK, the country would stop for an hour to see this fight. Joshua and Fury are like peanut butter and jelly—they belong together,” DuBoef told Sky Sports.

Joshua, who recently met Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, confirmed his readiness for the fight, stating, “2025, I am targeting Tyson Fury. Time is limited, so I want to put in the work.”

Not everyone agrees with Wilder’s prediction. Former champion Barry Jones backs Fury as the favorite, citing his consistent dominance over his generation. “Joshua might be different now, but Fury is also different—and still better,” Jones said on the 5 Live Boxing podcast.

Boxing expert Steve Bunce warned the fight could be legacy-defining for both men. “The loser risks a lot, pride-wise. This fight is monumental,” he noted.

While Wembley Stadium is a potential venue, Saudi Arabia has also expressed interest in hosting the bout during Riyadh Season.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has described the potential fight as “the biggest in British boxing history,” hinting at a return to the ring for Joshua in May 2025.